Sept. 19, 1953 - Oct. 30, 2009

John Edward Wright Sr., 56, died Oct. 30, 2009 at his home in Eagle River.

A public viewing and services was held Nov. 6 at Alliance Christian Fellowship in Eagle River. A military funeral followed at Fort Richardson National Cemetery.

John was born Sept. 19, 1953 in St. Louis. He was the second of three children.

In 1971, John enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and proudly served his country for 26 years. During his enlistment, John earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland. In 1997, John retired from the Air Force while stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base and made Alaska his home.

John was employed with FedEx as manager of customs brokerage until his death.

John is survived by his loving wife, Gloria; his two sons, John of Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, and Dwayne, of Chugiak; his daughter, Rachel, of Palmer; his stepmother, Jeanne, of Gulf Shores, Ala.; and his seven grandchildren. He is further survived by his sisters, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harlan; and mother, Thelma.

His family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to the Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center at 22424 N. Birchwood Loop, Chugiak AK 99567.