Paul Bridgeford

Paul Harry Bridgeford, born on October 7, 1941, in Fargo, North Dakota, passed away on April 14, 2025, in Fargo, his beloved hometown. His commitment to his profession was paralleled by a deep devotion to his family, faith, and serving others.

Paul attended Shanley High School (1959), did his undergraduate studies at St. John's University (1963), and earned his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine (1966). He was drafted as a medical physician during the Vietnam War and was awarded a Bronze Star Metal with “V” for valor and heroism in combat. He served our country with incredible honor and bravery.

In 1968, Paul married Irma Bridgeford in the Catholic faith and together they welcomed four children: Monica Marie, Eddy Paul Patrick, Claudia Denise, and Melissa Cindy. They spent 20 years together raising their family in St. Petersburg, Florida, where Paul spent his entire career at the St. Petersburg Medical Clinic practicing his specialty of Rheumatology for patients throughout the community.

Paul found love again and married Stella Bridgeford in 1993 at St. Mary of the Lakes and they spent the next 30 years together living between Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, and Phoenix, Arizona. Paul and Stella’s bond started in the 1950s when they dated in high school, and life reunited them 30 years later to join their families together.

Paul cherished the simple joys in life, nourished by a strong faith and a passion for learning. His interests included a deep love for tennis, golf, classical piano, gourmet cooking, art, reading, and the French language, which he pursued enthusiastically throughout his life. He also had a great passion for the outdoors and a pure love for nature. He also enjoyed traveling around the world and was particularly fond of spending summers in France.

He leaves behind a vibrant family, including his children -- Monica (Clark) Mason, Eddy (Jennifer Brennan) Bridgeford, Claudia (Paul) Poteet, Melissa Bridgeford, Helen (Ken) Foltz, Gunnar Johnson, Laura (Lou) Giaquinto, and Rosella (Todd) Sparrow. His legacy continues through his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Paul is also survived by his sister, Wilda Kovich, nephew, John (Joanne) Bridgeford, and niece, Julie Bridgeford, along with many other nephews and nieces, and a wide circle of family and friends who cherished his presence.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Stella Bridgeford, his parents Harry and Wilda, and his brothers Jerome (Joyce) Bridgeford and John Bridgeford. As a man of deep faith, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Paul Bridgeford's spirit will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.