WRIGHT, DAVID RICHARD (age 76) ended a fierce battle with cancer that began 8 years ago. He was the son of the late V. Karl and Mary (Meyers) Wright, who owned Meyers Hardware, a family business. David embodied his favorite scripture in all aspects of his life-doing what the Lord required of him-acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with his Father. David earned both his BA and MA degrees in Economics from Michigan State University. He was an ardent MSU fan who was often spotted in the stands at basketball games, and was known for his boisterous cheering. David was a forward thinking, big picture guy. At the age of 20, he purchased his first parcel of land to create his own red pine farm, which he nurtured throughout his life. Though he grew up in Grand Rapids, he and his family moved to Wheaton, IL in the early 70s and resided there for 30 years. He spent most of his career as an executive in intermodal transportation, mainly with Transamerica Corporation, and later helming as CEO several spinoff companies. Toward the end of his career, he returned to Grand Rapids and continued in leadership. He was a longtime member of Grand Rapids Gospel Fellowship church. David made the most of his retirement, giving back by joining numerous boards, including: Crystal Flash, Leighton Township ZBA and Planning Commission, and the Salvation Army. His passion for sustainable forestry was displayed through his advocacy as President of the Michigan Forest Association. David loved the water, and his cottage on Lake Michigan brought him endless enjoyment with his family. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of almost 50 years, Joan; his three children, Kristen (FL), Kim Large (Matt) (Byron Center); and Branden (Stephanie) (Caledonia); his grandchildren, Falon and Holt Large; and many nieces, nephews and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, James Wright Sr. and Virginia Munday. Visitation will be held at Ofield Funeral Home, 4500 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, on Monday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. The funeral will be held at Ada Bible Church, 8899 Cascade Rd SE, Ada, on Tuesday at 11 a.m., with a visitation available at 10 a.m. before the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a charitable donation to the Salvation Army. He planted trees.



Service Information

Visitation
When: Monday, June 27, 2016 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Location:
Address: 4500 Kalamazoo AveKentwood,MI 49508

Second Visitation
When: Monday, June 27, 2016 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location:
Address: 4500 Kalamazoo AveKentwood,MI 49508

Third Visitation
When: Tuesday, June 28, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am
Location:
Address: 4500 Kalamazoo AveKentwood,MI 49508

Service
When: Tuesday, June 28, 2016 11:00am
Location:
Address: 4500 Kalamazoo AveKentwood,MI 49508