Obituaries

Raymond Knight from Ann Arbor, MI

"God bless John’s family during this difficult time, May he welcome John with open arms into his house. John was an inspiration for us all in high school. I will remember him as great friend in high school and beyond. Funny, intelligent and caring. God Bless you John “Elmo” Wright, may peace be with you. Yours truly Chet Knight and family."

Phil Dascola from Eagle Harbor, MI

"John and I had a very personal bond. Highschool football, Elmo & I as Quarterback and Center started each play together as one. This Love and Respect continued throughout our lives and still continues in the hearts and minds of all those who knew him. He will be dearly missed. Our deepest and sincere condolences to you Mary Beth and all the Wright family, with respect Phil & Mary Dascola"

Paul Sherzer from LIVONIA, MI

"Mary Beth, Johnny, Danny, Courtney and all of the Wright family,May our Lord wipe away all of your sadness and help you find peace. Elmo was many things, great athlete, scholar, friend and really a role model. Talking with Elmo you would never know of his achievements because he was such a humble guy. It is really a privilege to call him friend."

Mike Mrozinski from IMLAY CITY, MI

"Mary Beth, Johnny, Courtney, Danny and all his family. John was a fantastic man who loved his family dearly. I will cherish all of my memories of him from high school and our phone calls later in life. He was an amazing athlete, leader, teammate and friend. His kindness was given to those who interacted with him. He will be missed greatly. Heaven has gained an angel!"

Coach Dave McCarney from Belleville , MI

"Dear Wright Family, I was very saddened to hear about the passing of John. Affectionately nicknamed ‘Elmo’ , I was fortunate enough to be his football coach for 3 years at Ann Arbor St. Thomas. I saw him develop into an All State 1st Team QB his senior year after leading our team to an undefeated 9-0 season. I observe this dedication to his teammates and his respect for his opponents. All of which spoke to his strength of character. Rest in Peace Elmo, you will never be forgotten. With heartfelt condolences, Coach McCarney"

Eugene Glenn from Vero Beach , FL

"Reading what my friends have said about John " Elmo" everything they said is so true. I was that skinny kid who came to St. Thomas in 8th grade and stayed through my sophomore year. John was the nicest guy, I feel so bad for his family, he was truly the best. I was the humble Manager for the Varsity Football team and Elmo was the leader. I cried when I learned of his passing, wish I had known him longer. Our father in heaven called for him and I know John is in a better place. I miss those days."

Billy Nichols from Philadelphia, PA

"Mr. Wright was the biggest teddy bear. I will always remember him for his warmth, his hugs, his calm presence and his absolute love for his children and those of us that were fortunate to befriend him. You are truly missed. ❤️❤️❤️"

Tom Anhut from Cary, NC

"To all the Wright family members - Elmo was larger than life to many of us in younger grades who marveled at his athleticism, grace, and good nature. He was definitely one of the good guys, a role model and class act. Pam - I know how much you adored your big brother and I hope that soon all the wonderful memories you have of him replace the pain of his passing. I know that right now your parents are sharing a good laugh with John and embracing him once again. I wish you peace and love."

Pete O'Neill from South Lyon, MI

"Dear Wright family-so sorry for your loss of John. Many fond memories watching and coaching John and his brothers Tim and "smiley" Jeff. Class act always but had a great sense of humor. Eternal Rest grant unto him O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. In prayer. Coach Pete"

Kevin O'Connor from Ann Arbor, MI

"So sorry to hear of this loss of a great person. I grew up watching Elmo play football at St Thomas and always looked up to him. I recall hanging out in the locker room after games waiting for my older brothers who played football with Elmo. You could tell Elmo was looked up to by many, but he never let that go to his head. I remember how he treated everyone on his team and those of us at all ages with respect and kindness. He was fun to watch on the field; I recall some great games and many great plays. I remember thinking how cool it was that he played at Michigan for Bo. John thank you for some great memories, you will be missed."

Megan Markovic from St. Charles, IL

"I’m deeply saddened to hear about the loss of John. I had the pleasure of getting to know him through St. Patrick’s, while serving on the St. Joseph’s Table Committee. He was one of the kindest people I’ve ever met, and I’m truly grateful for the time I got to spend with him. I’ll always remember the kind words he shared with me after this year’s event — they meant so much. John was a truly special person, and he will be greatly missed. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time."

Mary Ellen Morrison Murphy from Marietta, GA

"John was one of my very favorite people at Marquette. He was always sweet, kind and thoughtful. Funny thing is that he also played Rugby- doesn’t seem congruent but Marquette Rugby was filled with cool guys. Mary Beth, I want to tell you how very sorry I am for your loss. You guys had a very long fairy tale love. Tom and I will be praying you, John and your children. May his spirit live on in And through you.. God rest him. Love, Mary Ellen"

Joe Treml from Sycamore, IL

"Deepest sympathies to the Wright family at the passing one of God's best. It is hard to overstate just how much John was revered by those who grew up with him in high school in Ann Arbor. Always humble and kind, Elmo led by example and his impact was pervasive. I was fortunate enough to see him again at his mass - 9:30 a.m. St. Pat's - in recent years and we would share a few old times and laughs. He was the best natural athlete I ever knew. John was tremendously devoted to his parish and, of course, his family and friends. Quite a man."

Dale and Pat Johnson from Maricopa, AZ

"Dear Mary Beth, We heard of John's passing from an email from St. Pat's. We are so sorry for your great loss. Your husband was a man well loved by his family and friends. In his life he blessed countless people because of his faith. Please know that now he is in heaven with his Lord. May God bless you and your family with special graces as you walk through this time grieving. Sincerely, Dale & Pat Johnson"

Kevin Trim from Oak Park, IL

"Not only was Elmo an absolutely incredible athlete, he was a kind human being as well. I was blessed to be a part of the 9-0 football team and he treated each one of us with respect, no matter if you were a star or a role player, a senior or a Junior (like I was). Seeing him years ago at our 40-year reunion was so special and even more so now! God bless you, John. May Your Star Shine Brightly Forever! Until we all meet again!"

Paul Braddock from St. Charles, IL

"I've known John and Mary Beth since the grade school days at St Patrick School. However, it hasn't been until being part of the Welcome Committee at St Patrick, that I have recently engaged in conversations with him. The most notable was at the Easter Egg Hunt this year where we stood on the field and talked about St Patrick, his upcoming rolls, and the pride and joy of his life...his family. His infectious personality drews others to him like a magnet. Hu humbly dismissed the positive influence he had on others. He was quick to give credit to the Holy Spirit. We shared that we would possibly collaborate on some ideas for the St Patrick community. Now, I will listen for his voice from above to give suggestions on how we continually improve our life. With hs close contact with the Holy Trinity, may my ears hear his wisdom so I can move forward in a positive manner. God speed, John. Many blessings to you and your family."

Tom Morrone from Hinsdale, IL

"Dear Mary Beth and family, I am so sorry hear of the loss of John. Mary Beth, you might not remember me but I, along with Mark Adomaitis work with John over 20 yrs ago. We all had such a great time together. John was an amazing guy in the Med device world, always had such integrity. Outside of it, he was always the ‘straight man’ when telling jokes or fun. I had reached out to him a few weeks ago with no response. He was truly a great man, father, husband and friend. I/we will miss him. RIP John."

Steve & Jackie Balster from South Elgin, IL

"We are so sorry for your loss. John was such an amazing man…so caring, friendly, and faith-filled. He was a true presence at St. Pat’s and he will be deeply missed. Our heartfelt condolences to your family."

Tom Berg from Vail , CO

"Mary Beth & Family members, I'm so sorry to hear of Johns passing! John & worked on the same Mallinckrodt Medical sales team from 95-98 - LONG time ago for sure! But I have to say it feels like yesterday. Johnny (as I always called him) was a trusted mentor, friend, & great teammate. When I think of Johnny I remember our first conversation at our Lisle sales office - he made me feel super comfortable as the new guy, Many yrs passed & we managed to stay in touch every few years. I was so excited when we met at the Crane road church after mass...he was ushering & was glad to see him enjoying his retirement. Then FFwd about a year later went to mass at the downtown St. Charles Church & I was hoping to see Johnny again, & then Father asked us to keep Johnny in our prayers. We all agree Johnny is smiling down on us & mentoring the new angels & making everyone comfortable. Johnny had a huge caring heart & I wish you loving memories of your life with Johnny!"