Wayne E. Wright

1946 - 2017

Wayne E. Wright, 71, of La Crosse, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, December 18, 2017. He was born on August 16, 1946 in Ashland, WI to Henry and Leona (Gurske) Wright and the family moved to La Crosse a few months later. Wayne graduated from Central High School in 1964 and in 1968 he married his high school sweat-heart, Kathy Antony. In 1969 he joined the U.S. Army. He spent one year in Vietnam and one year stateside. He then joined the National Guard in May 1971, became an officer and retired after 24 years. Wayne graduated from La Crosse State (UW-L) in May 1971 with a Math & Business Administration Degree. He worked at Trane company for 27 years before retiring. He then worked as a Tax Advisor for H&R Block for 12 years before Total Retirement.

He enjoyed boating, fishing, hunting bowling, trap shooting and especially watching his three grandsons sporting events. They were the apple of his eye – especially the two older boys who became Eagle Scouts. The youngest, Avery, being his best buddy, taught grandpa all about hockey, and grandpa taught him about hunting and fishing.

Wayne is survived by his wife of 49 years, Kathy, two daughters Lisa (David) Alvarez of Austin, TX and their sons Dylan & Logan, Laura Wright of La Crescent, MN and her son Avery Steele. He was preceded in death by his parents and his only brother Dennis Wright.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, December 29, 2017 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1333 S. 13th St., La Crosse. Rev. Rick Roberts will officiate. Military honors will follow at the church. Friends may call at the Schumacher – Kish Funeral & Cremation Services, 200 West Ave. S. on Thursday from 4-7 PM and again at the church on Friday from 9:30 AM until the time of service.