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Merle Wright Obituary
Former Phoenix resident, Merle Ellis Wright, age 91, went to be with his Lord and Savior on June 21, 2012. He passed away peacefully at his home in Lynden, WA surrounded by his loving family. A gracious gentleman who enjoyed the fellowship of many friends; Merle loved God and his family above all else. His loving strong heart exemplified honesty, integrity and Christian principles that will be missed by all who knew him. He was born December 5, 1920 in Summit, SD to Fred and Clara (Van Schaick) Wright. During The Great Depression, he moved with his family to the Tri-Cities, WA area. On Sept. 10, 1946 he was married to Loretta Mills and they shared 65 years of marriage. Following his military service in the US Navy during WWII, Merle began a successful insurance career; eventually owning his own agency and retiring in 1985. A godly man, his faith and church involvement were most important to him; as well as community activities. In 1992, Merle and Loretta settled in Lynden, WA to be near their grandsons. He was an avid Phoenix Suns basketball fan. Go Phoenix Suns! He is survived by his wife, Loretta; children, Doug (Eunice) Wright, Merrilee (Dave) Downey, Marva (Dan) Preas; along with grandsons, Austin and Kyle Wright. Graveside services with military honors will be held Thursday, June 28, 10:00 am at Desert Lawn Memorial Park in Kennewick, WA. You are invited to share your memories and condolences in the online guest book at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Gillies Funeral Home, Lynden, WA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Merle Wright
5 Entries
July 1, 2012
Loretta and family,
So sorry to hear the news. It was by accident that I discovered the news.
I have memories of you both coming to my place of work (Rosewood Villa) to perform for my residents. You, Merle and the gang made many smiles on those special days. I remember noticing all the love between you and thinking how I would love to even half of what you shared. I thought I would share a little memory with you. Call me anytime. I am in the phone book.
Much love,
Charlene Hitz
Jerry & Elaine Goble
June 27, 2012
Blessings on all of you who have had this beautiful Christian pass on to his reward. What a blessing he and your family was to both of our families. Jerry said right away. "He was a good friend to my daddy."
Joanne DeBondt
June 24, 2012
Dearest Loretta and family,
So sorry to learn of Merle's passing. He fought the good fight and is now rejoicing with his Lord and Saviour free of struggle and pain...Our loss is Heaven's gain. Praying for comfort and strength in the days ahead....hugs to you Loretta.
Rebekah McCown
June 24, 2012
Heaven gained an amazing angel. Thinking of you and sending love and hugs!
Jack, Lorraine Mooney
June 24, 2012
Loretta we are so sorry for your loss of companionship and love from Merle he is at home with his Lord and free of pain/ We may not be able to make it for th funeral as we are visiting up North with my brother. Prayers going up
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