JEFFERSON — Marvin “Haven’t had a bad day yet” Wright, age 81, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, at his home, with his daughters by his side.
Born Nov. 26, 1930, in Meadville, Pa., he was the son of Charles and Mary (Chambers) Wright and the youngest of seven children. He grew up on a farm and “walked to school, uphill both ways, against the wind.” He served in the Army during the Korean War as an Army cook. He married Joan Jensen while on leave March 10, 1951 and they had been married 51 years when she passed in September of 2002.
A resident of Plymouth Township for 53 years, he owned and operated his own business, Ashtabula Body and Fender with his business partner Tom Miller, whom he considered a son, and their loyal employee and friend, Rickster.
He will be fondly remembered by all who knew him for his love of jokes and art of storytelling. He enjoyed family camping and boating. The family has many wonderful memories of his homemade pontoon boat at Pymatuning Lake. Marvin’s favorite pastimes were his unconventional auctioneering and fishing with family and friends, Jim the Barber, Dave, Gary, Skeeter, Justin, Rich, Tom and Bob.
He was a 43-year member of Plymouth United Methodist Church where he held many positions. He was a lay leader and never missed an opportunity to give a sermon. He preached in campgrounds around Ohio and Pennsylvania. His legacy would be he wished everyone would come to know Jesus.
Survivors include two daughters, Susan (Larry) Smith of Austinburg and Judy (Kevin) Meier of Kingsville; eight grandchildren, Brian and Russell (Joelle) Smith, Gary, Kelly and Eric Meier, Sally (Max) and Laura Wright, and Kasha Woodring; two great-grandchildren, Javian and Joshua; three sisters, Ruth Jankowski of Florida and Mary Owens and Florence Dillaman, both of Meadville, Pa.; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Louise Jensen Wright; his son, Kevin Arthur Wright; two daughters, Nancy and Robin Wright; two brothers, Bill and Charles Wright; one sister, Sarah Johnson; and his parents.
A Memorial Service will be held 12 Noon, Sunday, Nov. 25th, at Plymouth United Methodist Church, 970 Plymouth Road, Ashtabula. The Rev. Johnnie Swann, Pastor will officiate with full Military Honors to be held. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Plymouth Township.
In honor of Marvin’s dedication to his church, family and friends are encouraged to come celebrate Christ the King Sunday church service from 10:30 a.m. until the time of his Memorial.
Memorial contributions may be made to Plymouth United Methodist Church Memorial Fund or Hospice of the Western Reserve. DUCRO FUNERAL SERVICES AND CREMATORY, 4524 Elm Ave., Ashtabula is in charge of arrangements.
Obituary at www.ducro.com and starbeacon.com.
