Pauline "Ponnie" Marie (Bridgewater) Foster

Pauline Bridgewater Foster
“Ponnie” January 9, 1926-November 13, 2021

Pauline Marie (Bridgewater) Foster passed away quietly on Saturday November 13, 2021 at the Cottages at Martin Lake in Fremont, Michigan.  Pauline (Ponnie) was born on January 9, 1926 to Harvey A. Bridgewater and Georgeann (Logan) Bridgewater in Hartford, Illinois. She spent her early years, as a depression era family member, on the banks and cliffs of the Mississippi River.  In that youth experience she learned about the natural gifts of God, the joy of close family and the value of hard work.  Ponnie was the middle child, preceded in death by her brother Bob and sister Geraldine.  While attending High School she became acquainted with a young man, Alfred H. Foster, who would become her husband. As a member of Patton’s 3rd Army Al returned from WW II after peace was declared and they were married. They started a family, Al continued his education and after receiving his degree, began his career as an elementary teacher.  Holding several summer jobs to make ends meet, Al was offered a job by the Evanston YMCA to become the Social Director of Camp Echo in Fremont, Michigan. The family came to Camp Echo that first summer. During that first summer Al was offered an administrative position at Fremont Public Schools. He accepted and the following year the family moved to Fremont.  Ponnie resumed her education attending Muskegon Community College and attained her Bachelor's and Master's Degree from Western Michigan University.  She then taught 4th grade several years at Pine Street Elementary in Fremont.  After retirement they both enjoyed golfing, socializing with friends, church functions, following St. Louis Cardinals baseball and of course family get togethers. After 50 years of marriage Ponnie became a widow, despite her loss she continued to live a full and joyful life.  Pauline is survived by her daughter Nancy (Glen) Sparks, grandchildren Andy (Vicki) Sparks w/children: Thomas and Drew. Nate (Tricia) Sparks w/children: Mason, Ellen and Logan. Casey (Laura) Sparks w/children: Georgia, Austin and Levi.  The family would like to thank the staff at the Cottages at Martin Lake for the wonderful care and love given to Ponnie during her months there. You are greatly appreciated.  There will be a time of visiting with the family along with refreshments from 3:30-5:30 PM on Thursday, November 18, 2021 at the Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home.  Suggested Memorials:  Fremont Public Schools FFA Chapter, or the Fremont Area District Library.  You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com.  Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont.

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