Donald Nelson Wright, a lifelong resident of Au Gres, MI, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2023. Born on April 25, 1936, Don was known for his love of the lord, hard work, creativity, and love for his family and community.
Don was born and raised on a farm in Au Gres, alongside his five siblings. He attended Delano School and later graduated from Arenac Eastern High School. His early years on the farm fostered a love for the outdoors and a knack for hard work, traits that would stay with him throughout his life.
In 1954, Don met the love of his life, Margaret Jane Alverson, at the Delano Community Hall. The two were inseparable from that moment on, marrying on June 23, 1956. They made their home in Au Gres, where they raised their large and loving family.
Don was a man of many talents, but his creativity and handiness were truly remarkable. He had a passion for carpentry, often spending hours in the woods building cabins for his family and friends to enjoy. His love for hunting and fishing was equally strong, and he passed these passions on to his children and grandchildren.
Don is survived by his wife, Margaret; his children, Dave (Carol) Wright, Rick (Melissa) Wright, Barbara (Bob) Lawler, John (Kwang Cha) Wright, Dan (Soon Ok) Wright, Jerry Wright, Krista Rosey Webb, Ben (Joung Mi) Wright, Janny (Don) Courier, and Andrew Wright. He also leaves behind his siblings, Dorothy Piegols, Norm (JoAnn) Wright, Elaine (William) Kern, and Betty (Bob) Davies.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Pearl Wright; his brother, Dale Wright; his daughter, Kathryn R. Genge; his great-grandson, Henry James Sesler; his son-in-law, Charlie Webb; and his brother-in-law, Don Piegols.
Don’s life was a testament to the power of love, hard work, and creativity. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Don Wright will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever be a part of the Au Gres community he loved so dearly.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Riverside Mennonite Church, with Pastor Mark Roe and Pastor Lyle Swartz presiding, with burial in Sims-Whitney Cemetery. The family will greet family and friends on Friday, September 29, 2023, from 4:00-8:00 PM at Riverside Mennonite Church.
