James Edward Wright, age 91, passed away on June 11, 2023, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was born January 7, 1932, in Fremont, Nebraska, to William Chester Wright and Margaret Koehn Wright.
Jim served in the Navy during the Korean Conflict on the U.S.S Sicily. He was a Police Officer in Ogden, Utah, and worked as an engineer for the Union Pacific Railroad for 40 years. He enjoyed hiking, tennis and swimming. He married Elfriede Margarete Zach at the Zion Lutheran Church. He and his wife Elfie enjoyed the Red Butte Gardens. Jim was a member of the Wasatch Mt. Club. He was raised in the Lutheran Church and was an active member of St. Paul Lutheran in Ogden and Zion Lutheran in Salt Lake City.
Jim is survived by his wife Elfie Z. Wright; daughters Rebecca Cote, Maine, Theresa Finke, State College PA and Stacey Wright, Howard PA; step-sons Erik and Marcel; 6 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Chet and Margaret Wright; sister Ginger P. Hazzard; brother Buddy Wright and 1st wife Glenna Stacey Wright.
Funeral services will be held Monday, June 19, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 East 1300 South, SLC, with a closed casket visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m. Rev. Michael Tassler from Zion Lutheran Church will officiate. Interment will take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 1342 East 500 South, SLC, followed by a reception at Canyon Crest, Donner Way.
Jim was a true gentleman and always easy to talk to.
Rest in Peace, your life’s work is done!
Jim and I grew up in evanston wyoming. Our fathers were engineers for the union Pacific railroad. He always had a smile and was a gentle soul. He and elfie were soul mates nd enjoyed their life together he will be missed by everyone.
I will miss you Jim. I’ve known Elfie since 1968 when both our families moved to Salt Lake. Jim came into the picture in 1986 when he & Elfie married in SALT LAKE (not Chicago!) & I have fond memories of visiting them, along with my husband & parents at their “pool parties” after they moved to Canyon Crest. Now Elfie & I are the only ones remaining. Jim was always such a great guy & so fun to be around , even as he became more frail the last few years. Rest in peace Jim & you will always remain in our memories from better times.
My condolences to all of you. May good memories bring you peace and comfort.
I first met Jim & Elfie at Red Butte Garden, they would stop in my office on their way for a walk. Jim was a true gentleman, always kind with a smile on his face. He will be missed.
Dear Elfie,
We are very sorry for your loss and send you our heartfelt condolences.
James was a true gentleman and he will be missed deeply by his family and friends.
Farewell dear James!
Dear Elfie,
I am sorry to hear about Jimmy passing. He was a very special man with a gentle and kind spirit. I have many fond memories including of the two of you coming to the Orthopaedic Center so you could exercise in the pool and Jimmy in the gym. May he rest in peace.
Barbara
