A. E. Gene Wright

Albert E. "Gene" Wright, 82, of Shawnee passed away Thursday February 17, 2011, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Gene was born May 10, 1928, to the late Albert and Ida Wright in Mound City, Kansas, and spent his childhood in New Lancaster, Kansas.

Gene entered the Navy on January 28, 1946, at the age of 17, where he served as a Gunner's Mate in the Pacific on three battleships, the USS Topeka, USS New Jersey and the USS Bremerton. After his service in the Navy, Gene married Patricia Ann Tucker on April 1, 1948. They were married for 63 years.

Gene worked as a plumber for Ellis Witter Plumbing in Overland Park for over 40 years. After he retired he served as a crossing guard for the Merriam police department for 15 years. Gene finally retired in 2006.

Gene was a family man and enjoyed camping and fishing with his family. He served as a Scout Leader for Troop #185 with all three of his sons. Gene is a member of Grace Christian Fellowship Church as well as Lake Paradise Camping Club.

Gene is survived by his loving wife Patricia, his four children: Ron and wife Donna Kay Wright, Terry and wife Susan Wright, Bonnie Haley and Rick Wright; five grandchildren: Julie and husband Keaton McRay, Jennifer and husband Justin Turner, Mindy and husband Jacob Bell, Valerie and husband Tim Wichmann and Terry Wright, Jr. and wife Stephanie. Thirteen great grandchildren also survive him.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Compassionate Care Hospice, 10000 W. 75th Street, Suite #231, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66204 or to the Grace Christian Fellowship Church, 7230 Quivira Road, Shawnee, Kansas 66216.

Visitation and Services

Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. Tuesday, February 22, 2011, at the Amos Family Chapel of Shawnee. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. Burial with full military honors will be at Rockville Cemetery in Drexel, Missouri.