Gary Earl Wright

In Loving Memory of Gary Wright, a father, friend, educator and lifelong farmer who passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on January 29, 1938 in Coeur D'Alene, Idaho, Gary lived a life rich in experiences and left a mark on all who knew him. Gary was the son of Clifton "Earl" Wright and Helen Wright (née Schultz). He grew up in Worley, Idaho, where he graduated from Worley High School in 1956, then went on to earn his Bachelor's degree from the University of Idaho in 1960. During his time at the university, Gary became a member of the Theta Chi Fraternity, forming bonds that would last a lifetime. For over 22 years, Gary worked in the field of education, sharing his knowledge with students in both Idaho and Washington. His heart always remained at the family farm in Worley, where he worked beside his father (while still teaching) before taking over farm operations completely in 1981. Gary's love of the outdoors was matched only by his enthusiasm for trap shooting. A lifetime member of the Washington State Skeet Shooting Association, the Amateur Trapshooting Association, and the Spokane Gun Club where he was a member (and periodic Board Member) for over 50 years. Gary won numerous Class wins over the years in the sport he loved. A true historian at heart, Gary had a penchant for collecting rare firearms, Civil War memorabilia, antiques and collector cars (in his later years). He also loved to travel and had the opportunity to visit Europe, take multiple cruises and spend time in New Orleans (his favorite) on several occasions. His witty and sometimes sarcastic sense of humor, coupled with his hillbilly wisdom, endeared him to family and friends alike. Despite having strong opinions and not suffering fools lightly, Gary had an extreme soft spot for all animals and was a generous supporter of numerous charitable organizations supporting them, particularly PROJECT K9 HERO. Gary was predeceased by his beloved wife, Judith Wright, his parents, Earl and Helen, and his sisters, Delaine Lewis and Janice Pico. He is survived by his sister, Carol Crigger; his son, Todd Wright; his daughter, Leslie VanSchaak and her husband Chris; his daughter-in-law, Alexis Skjelbred; and his grandchildren, Kyle and Kaylie. The family fondly remembers some of Gary's favorite sayings, such as, "Life is tough, but it's tougher when you're stupid," and "I spent most of my money on whiskey and women, the rest I just wasted." These expressions capture the essence of Gary's unique outlook on life and his sharp sense of humor. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Gary's memory to PROJECT K9 HERO, an organization he valued deeply.