A Tribute to Dr. Earl Bridgewater

by Georgianne Peterson

Dr. Earl Bridgewater was “many things to many people.” He reached admirable heights in the Iowa educational arena. He was an assistant superintendent for the largest school district in Iowa. He served on a wide variety of boards. He worked with educational consultant groups and school districts across the U.S. He served his church community. He directed the Iowa Viterbo University program and center. He was a wonderful family man. He was an outstanding human. I am proud to say he was one of my dearest friends.

Strangely, there were probably hundreds of people who would say that he was one of their best friends. That was because no one was a stranger to Earl. He sought out people to get to know them. He took time to listen and ask questions about people. He remembered them, their family, and their hopes and dreams. Earl went out of his way to make people successful.

Earl was wise. He was joyful. He was organized and detailed. He knew his craft and could use his knowledge and skills to get things done. He was a change agent. He gave back to the world and expected little in return.

Now I know Earl had flaws, but for me, he was pretty close to perfect. He was my friend for well over forty years. He was a wonderful mentor and role model. I enjoyed listening to and laughing with Earl as he told his life stories. Going to dinner with Earl and a group of friends was an experience to cherish. He would always ask the waitress to have the chef prepare his best meal for him. He did not care what it was. He knew it would taste great and he would get to meet the chef. At the end of the meal he would order two things. He would order one dessert to be shared with the table of friends. That seemed to generate more grateful conversations and laughter. Lastly, he would order something to take home to his beloved wife, Ann. He never forgot where is his heart lived!

There are many personal stories everyone could tell about Earl, because it always felt like he cared about you...and he did. He cared deeply about family, friends, employees, and students. Simply put Earl just cared. That is what made Dr. Earl Bridgewater, Earl,  an exceptional person!