Howard “Howie” Wright, Sr. suddenly passed into Heaven at the Veterans Administration Hospital, Palo Alto, CA, at age 79. “Howie,” a native San Jose’ian served in WWII, finding housing for the concentration camp survivors working under a full bird in the Army. While in reserve status, he was called to serve in the Korean war as a private first class. Howie’s grandfather; Richard French, born in Southerland, England, but raised in the USA, was the first elected Mayor (Council Head) in San Jose, CA, for a six year term (1932-1938). His father, George R. Wright, a San Jose native, was the chief cabinet maker for the San Jose City Public Works Dept. from 1932-1954. George was also the Santa Clara City Marshal from 1919-1920. Howie’s father and mother, Laura T. Wright (French), were members of the Native Sons/Daughters of the Golden West. Howie’s parents were 20 years apart in age.
After many years of participating in the Boy Scouts of America, (30 badges), Howie was an accomplished Sailor, which started when he became a Sea Scout in 1944. He was a small plane pilot, fisherman, golfer, Indian Guide Chief, Sunday school teacher, Prison Outreach Ministry, Church Deacon, Public School Christian Release Time teacher and all around great guy! He graduated from Lincoln High and then San Jose State University. Two of his children, Howard and Debbie, following in his footsteps, became 3rd generation grads of San Jose State University. Howie worked in the Aero Space Industry – Avco: Lycoming Div. (missile parts), GE, a Draftsman and with the Santa Clara County Health Dept.
Howie was married to Marion “Mickey” A. Wright (Peck) for 52 years and fathered three sons; Howard Lee, Jr., Stephen Jordan “Jody” and Gerald “Jerry” Wayne, along with one daughter, Deborah L. Wright. Howie is survived by two children; Jerry and Debbie, one brother; George R. Wright, Jr., five grandchildren; Laura, Jonathan, Stacey, Christina, Shaun Wright and two daughter-in-laws; Glenna Wright (Engberg) and Pam Bird (Dixon, Wright). As my mother, Mickey, will be remembered for her infectious laugh and joy of life, Howie will be remembered for being quiet, congenial, a pillar of strength and supportive in every way possible.
My Dad, my soul mate, wanted to send a message: “It is time to celebrate LIFE after I pass into my afterlife in Heaven.”
Services will be held on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2007 at South Valley Community Church, Gilroy, CA at 11 A.M.
