Jerrold "Jerry" Winter Wright

Jerrold "Jerry" Winter Wright, 85, of La Grande, died Sept. 29 at Grande Ronde Hospital. He suffered from Parkinsons for many years. A service will begin at

2 p.m. Saturday at Daniels-Knopp Funeral, Cremation and Life Celebration Center. Vault interment will follow at Union Cemetery. Viewing will run from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at Daniels-Knopp.

Jerry was born Aug. 22, 1925, the fourth of six children to Charles Ray and Vivian Ruth (Mayfield) Wright in Union. He attended Union schools. He left high school and enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was honorably discharged on Nov. 15, 1946. In 1967, he married Patricia Seale. He became an instant father to Cindy, Joseph and Robin. Pat died in 1990. On July 30, 2000, he married Carolyn Howard in Summerville and added five more step-children to his family, John, Paul, Greg, Susan and Holly.

Jerry worked as a millwright for Grande Ronde Valley Lumber in Union for many years. He owned a farm and did cattle ranching. He and his wife, Pat, operated a woodworking and craft business where he handcrafted many beautiful wood furniture pieces.

He attended the Summerville Baptist Church. He was a member of Summerville Grange for many years where he served as chairman and caretaker. He was a life member of the Odd Fellows Lodge, member of the NRA and active in the Star Promenaders Square Dance group.

He loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing. Those who knew him say he was a regular Mr. Fix-It and helped many friends with lots of projects. Those who knew him say he was very intelligent and a prolific writer, having written many poems and stories. They say he had a great memory and a wonderful imagination.

He loved music, especially country music. Jerry sang country music for service men during World War II. He played the guitar and harmonica.

He loved to cook and bake which he learned from his mother. He was a friendly man with a great sense of humor.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Carolyn Howard Wright of La Grande; two sisters, Shirley Keagle and Pearl Miller; eight step-children, Cindy VanHandel, Joseph Seale, Robin Seale, John Howard, Paul Howard, Greg Howard, Susan Vogler and Holly Whitten; 15 step-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia; sister, Marion who died at 8 years old; sister, Virginia "Marie" Riomondo; and brother, Charles "Chuck" Amos Wright.

Memorial contributions may be made to Parkinsons Research in care of Daniels-Knopp Funeral, Cremation and Life Celebration Center.

.