Michael A. Wright

Micheal A. Wright, 54, Senior Customer Advocate for Optum Rx, a Division of United Healthcare Group, died Wednesday, July 17th, 2024. Michael (Mike) came into this world with an infectious smile and humor that would light up a room. His smile is what everyone remembers about him the most and that smile will be missed, especially around the Holidays. In 1989, Mike joined the Navy and after finishing boot camp was recruited to the Medical field and became a Marine Field Medic and a Dental Technician, so he had to continue boot camp for two more weeks with the Marines, making him a Fleet Marine. He stayed with the Navy/Marines for five years. While he served, he earned the following Certificates of Commendation: Fleet Marine Force Ribbon, a SEA Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal and a Navy Pistol Expert Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1994. He came home to Wichita and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education at WSU. After he graduated, he began teaching Science at Marshall Junior High, his old stomping grounds. He eventually moved to Indianapolis for a few years, then to Kansas City for another 10 years. In 2014, he bought a house in Wichita and began planting roots. He loved his family, but his nieces were the light of his life. He would spend weeks trying to find fun, outrageous gifts for them at Christmas. From kazoos, to duck calls, to mind games, to bongos, they never knew what they were going to get when they opened gifts from him. And they also learned to bring their patience, perseverance, and a tool box because he loved to wrap gifts that were almost impossible to open. He always brought joy and light-heartedness with him wherever he went. He had a gentle, loving way about him and possessed a quiet strength. He had a way of speaking that made you listen to him and take what he was saying seriously. He was kind, sweet, funny, ornery and completely lovable. He offered so much to this world and took very little in return. His smile, his laugh and his way of telling stories will be greatly missed. Preceded in death by his father, Bruce R. Wright. Survived by his mother, Sharon K. Wright of Wichita, KS; sisters, Lisa Cruze, Pamela Wright; brother, Vincent Wright; nieces, Chloe Wright, Laura Cruze and Michelle Cruze; and many extended family and friends. Rosary will be 10:00 am, with Funeral Mass at 10:30 am, Friday, August 9, 2024, both at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Graveside Service will follow Funeral Mass at Resurrection Mausoleum. Reception will follow Graveside Service at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary - West Chapel.