Joseph R. Wright

Passed away Tuesday, October 27, 2009 surrounded by four of his six daughters and the music he loved. Born in Columbus, Ohio on January 2, 1921 to Forrest Wright and Mabel Casey, Joe moved to Santa Rosa when he was a year old. He is survived by his daughters Karen Anderson (Don), Marcene Mires (Michael), Sharon Acton, Amy Saenz (Oscar), Debbie Acton and Chris Parker (Roger); grandsons Devin Anderson, Aaron Dalbey (Jacki); great-granddaughters Rowan Dalbey, Morgan Anderson; and many nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his wives Wyone Wright and Mardell Acton Wright; his grandson Brett Anderson; and his brothers Forrest Wright Jr. and Charlie Wright. Joe was an avid musician and began his musical life in 1937 with the Santa Rosa High School band. He had fond memories of marching across the Golden Gate Bridge with the band on the day it opened. He played the saxophone with small dance bands along the Russian River during the 1940's and '50s. Joe was a member of the California Accountants Society and a practicing accountant for 65 years. He was the longest practicing accountant in California at the time of his retirement. As a young man Joe developed a love for flying. He and members of his flying club spent many weekends on excursions to places such as the Nut Tree in Sacramento, Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas where he any Wyone were married. Besides his family and friends, the love of Joe's life was his cabin at Lake Tahoe and playing Black Jack at Harrah's and Harvey's. This can be attested to by the fact that Joe's license plate was JRW 21. Joe's second passion was woodworking. He had a workshop full of just about every tool known to man, with which he built his cabin at Lake Tahoe and beautiful furniture for his family. He was always willing to help anyone with a project or a repair. Joe will be remembered by all as gentle and kind. He will be carried with love in the hearts of his family and friends. Joe's family would like to thank L. Reed Walker, M.D. and his caregivers Osea, Tava and Teiko, who's gentle loving care enhanced the quality of his life. Also a special thanks to Marilyn Read, St. Joseph's Hospice nurse, who gently guided them at the end. Friends are invited to attend Funeral Services on Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at DANIELS CHAPEL OF THE ROSES, 1225 Sonoma Avenue, Santa Rosa. Private Interment. If desired, donations in Joe's memory may be made to the Valley of the Moon Children's Home, PO Box 11671, Santa Rosa, CA 95402. DANIELS CHAPEL OF THE ROSES FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES 707-525-3730