Janet Cook
As a member of Bear River Class of 1963, I (Janet Thompson Cook) was saddened to learn of the passing of Sherwood Bridges. I had the opportunity to fall in love with chemistry under his fabulous tutelage! I was not the only one. Out of a graduating class of 155 students, two went on to earn PhDs in chemistry because his enthusiastic, inspiring teaching. (I actually began my first year at USU intending to major in chemistry, but became sidetracked with vocal music performance and ended up with a degree in education and music.)
I want Sherwood's family to know what an inspired teacher he was. Each day in his class was fun and magical as he guided us to appreciated the beauty of the science of chemistry. I was thrilled for him and your family when I learned that he left Bear River after ten years, going on to teach at universities; but I was saddened to know that a genius of a science teacher was no longer inspiring obnoxious teenagers to become fascinated with chemistry.
It was wonderful to read about the other beautiful accomplishments of Sherwood Bridges life. Teenagers are oblivious to the lives their teachers live outside of class. I am not surprised that he inspired many to LOVE the Gospel of Jesus Christ, just as he inspired us in school.
I do regret that I never tracked him down while he was alive to tell him "Thank You!" I hope you will share my message with his children and grandchildren. What a wonderful man, beloved by many for many different reasons!
Friday April 27, 2018 at 11:57 pm