Arnold Leroy Wright

Bud was born in on July 9, 1929 in Bisbee, Arizona to George and Inga Wright. He spent his youth playing and exploring in the eclectic copper mining town. After graduating from Bisbee High School in 1947 Bud joined the U.S. Navy in 1948. He was stationed in Bellingham, Washington and sailed the Pacific on the naval destroyer U.S.S. Grady.

After four years of service in the Navy Bud enrolled at the University of Arizona in Tucson. He earned his degree in agricultural economics upon graduating in 1957. Bud met his wife to be, Margaret C. Cram while studying at the U of A. The two returned to East Highland and were married at the Highland Congregational Church.

Bud began his agricultural career working for his father-in-law and local citrus grower, Henry Cram where he managed groves in Highland, Rialto, and Bloomington. In 1966 Bud began working as an agricultural biologist for San Bernardino County while continuing his focus on the family citrus groves. He spent 23 years working for the county making friends, inspecting for insects and sharing tales of the county’s history.

Bud served as a board member for several local agencies. For 40 years he was the director for the San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District. He also served as President of the North Fork Mutual Water Company, the Santa Ana River Exchange, and the Bear Valley Mutual Water Company. He also served as a director for the Gold Buckle Association and the East Highlands Citrus Association. Bud had also been a past member of the Rotary International, Elk’s Club, Freemasons, San Bernardino Horseman Club and was still an active member of the Rim of the World Riders at the time of his passing.

Bud was recognized for the many years of professional service and civil leadership in 2011 by California State Legislature Assembly Resolution presented by the honorable Mike Morrell.

Bud and Margaret were blessed with two children and three grandchildren. Lisa lives in Highland with her husband Tim McComber and their two children Mitchel and Katelyn. Bruce lives in San Francisco with his wife Kelly and daughter Eliza. Margaret resides at the Brightwater Senior Living community in Highland.

Bud had a gregarious zest for life. He was an avid horseman and trout fisherman but would always place his family first. He loved to watch sports especially when it involved the U of A football or basketball teams. Bud will be remembered as an active member of his community, anecdotal historian and respected citrus industry representative. His love and devotion to his country, community, wife and family will be greatly missed.

A memorial service and reception will be held at Mountain View Mortuary and Cemetery located at 570 East Highland Avenue in San Bernardino on February 17 with a private burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers please direct memorials to:

City of Highland Trails, attention Kim Stater: checks payable to City Hall to benefit City Trails, 27215 Base Line, Highland, CA 92346

Yucaipa Equestrian Center, checks made payable to: Yucaipa Equestrian Center Dottie Potter Memorial Fund, PO Box 802, Yucaipa, CA 92399