Bridgewater, Ralph E.

Ralph E. Bridgewater, 83, of Van Horne, Iowa, died Friday, Aug. 5, 2011, peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family. A memorial service is planned for Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. at the Methodist Church in Van Horne. Friends and family may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday at the Methodist Church. Iowa Cremation is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ralph E. Bridgewater was born Aug. 7, 1927, in Hopkins, Mo., the son of Ivan and Verda (Ulmer) Bridgewater. Ralph was among one of the last drafted into World War II. He served proudly in the Army and then worked as a self-employed truck driver for many years, along with farming. On Oct. 9, 1948, Ralph married Macy Ann Hall. Ralph enjoyed spending time camping, collecting model trains and time with his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Macy of Van Horne; two sons, Steven (Karla) Bridgewater of Van Horne and Robert (Cathy) Bridgewater of Blairstown; one daughter, Linda (John) Dvorak of Oskaloosa, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Kristine, Aaron, Alex, Jim, Deziray, Danyelle, and Mathiew; 11 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Eldon and Earl; and one sister, Margaret Lowrance.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Verda (Ulmer) Bridgewater.

Online condolences may be left for the family at