Robert "Bob" S. Bridges

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Bob, 81 lived a life defined by vision, persistence, and a deep, unwavering devotion for the urban city and lifestyle that he enjoyed and loved.

In his youth, he was a skydiver, an adventurer, a free thinker and a man of many talents and pursuits, including being a lumberjack in the timberlands of the Pacific Northwest. He lived and traveled extensively throughout Europe - absorbing the culture, architecture, and urban vitality of great cities.

Those experiences gave him a keen sense of what his hometown could become, even as downtown and Midtown Atlanta were being abandoned by businesses and residents fleeing to the suburbs during the 1960s and 70s. Where others saw decline, Bob saw possibility. He was one of those rare people who could look at a struggling streetscape and see its potential.

As one of the first twelve members of the Atlanta Midtown Business Association, (now known as the Midtown Alliance), he helped lay the groundwork for the vibrant urban city that exists today. His involvement in the development of MARTA, Atlanta's rail transit system, reflected his belief that a connected city was a stronger city.

He was an early champion of The Georgia Dome, (where the Mercedes Stadium stands today), the Atlanta BeltLine, Old Fourth Ward Park, and the Piedmont Park Conservancy, understanding that green spaces and public infrastructure were the heartbeat of a thriving urban community.

As a commercial real estate broker, Bob served on numerous boards and poured his energy into revitalization projects across the city, with particular dedication to the Fairlie-Poplar district and the broader Midtown area.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob was simply good company. He was persistent, honest, respectful, and caring, but also a free spirit, with a good sense of humor, fun, romance and optimism. He had a genuine love for all forms of art, with a special passion for music. And he was an enthusiastic sports fan - especially for the Atlanta Falcons.

Whether he was talking about urban planning, listening to a great album, or watching a game, Bob brought the same infectious enthusiasm to everything he did. He had the ability to bring people together around a shared cause and make the work feel less obligation and more like purpose.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Julia Bridges; sister, Diane Hetzell and his daughter, Skye Bridges.

Bob is survived by his wife, Linden Bridges, his loving partner through all of life's adventures. Additional survivors include his sons, Mark Garner, Gordon Garner IV, James Bridges (Claire) and two grandsons, Cole and Devon Bridges; his brothers, Tom (Anita), Terry (Reg) and David Bridges.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bob's memory to the Parkinson's Foundation, supporting research and care for those affected by the debilitating disease he faced with such dignity.

Details regarding a celebration of his life - full of memories and achievements - will be shared with family and friends in the fall of this year.

Bob Bridges left Atlanta better than he found it, and that may be the finest thing anyone can say about a life well lived. His vision, his warmth, and his smiles and laughter will be deeply missed and long remembered.

The family extends their profound gratitude and appreciation to the many health care professionals, nurses and medical staff for the excellent care given to Bob during his prolonged illness.