John Charles Wright

John Charles Wright, 78, of Sun Lakes Country Club in Banning, California, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, May 30, 2025.

John was born on June 6, 1946, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Charles and Jeanette Wright. He spent most of his early years in Steele, North Dakota, before he and his family moved to California during his high school years. He graduated from Western High School in 1964 and proudly served in the United States Army from January 1966 to December 29, 1967, stationed in Germany.

Upon returning home, John married the love of his life, Gail Wright, on June 28, 1969. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised two beloved children, Paul and Susan. While raising their family, John also pursued higher education at California State University, Fullerton, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in microbiology.

His professional journey began at Kraft Foods in Buena Park, where his dedication and leadership led to a transfer to Wisconsin to manage the Kraft cheese plant, and later the Kraft plant in Illinois. He eventually returned to California and held positions at Wilsey Foods, Mother’s Cakes and Cookies, and The Cheesecake Factory in Calabasas. He concluded his career at Hill & Valley Bakery in Illinois before retiring. Throughout his life, John was admired for his strong work ethic, grounded nature, and unwavering love for his family.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Gail; his son, Paul; his daughter, Susan; his grandchildren Alyssa, Lindsey, and Brianna; and his great-grandchildren Bellamy, Adeline, Lucky, Lailuna, Vanessa, and Damien. He is also survived by his twin brother, Jim; siblings Juanita, Victor, and Carla; and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

John was a man who truly embraced life. He loved fishing, golfing, and—above all—laughing. He served faithfully as Head Elder at his church and often lent a helping hand to others in his community.

What made John unforgettable was his quiet strength and presence. He was calm, cool, and collected—a structured man who brought steadiness wherever he went. His embrace was not loud, but firm and sharply felt, often leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered—for some, challenging, and for others, profoundly grounding. He carried himself with a commanding confidence—never overbearing, but undeniably felt. To those who truly knew him, he was deeply loyal, close, and dependable.

He never missed a chance to share a dry joke, speak his truth, or remind others—playfully—just how handsome and sharp he was. “Elevendieght thousand dollars!” he’d say with a half-smile, signifying an imaginary large lump sum of money, always keeping people guessing whether he was serious or joking. He loved playing the lottery and often laughed that he’d already won in life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Jeanette Wright; his sister, Sheila; and his great-grandson, Elijah.

John will be remembered for the laughter he shared, the kindness he showed, and the legacy of love he leaves behind.

2 Corinthians 5:1

For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down—when we die and leave these bodies—we will have a home in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on June 30, 2025, and will include the following:

• Church Service

Grace Lutheran Church

1000 W Wilson St, Banning, CA 92220

Gathering at 10:00 AM | Service begins at 10:30 AM

• Cremation Urn Placement

Riverside National Cemetery

22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518

Scheduled for 12:30 PM

• Reception to follow directly after

14185 Bush Ave, Riverside, CA 92508