Wayne Smith Wright

Wayne Smith Wright, beloved husband, father and Grampa passes away at age 80. Wayne Wright passed away October 23, 2010 in Jackson, CA after a brief illness. Born December 5, 1929 in Oakland, CA, Wayne made his career in the automotive industry, owning and operating Wright Brothers Auto repair shop in San Jose, California for many years. Wayne was not your average auto mechanic, he loved all his customers and they loved him... for his honesty, his integrity and just for who he was as a man. Wayne was also known for his unfailing patience and his and friendly personality… Wayne made friends everywhere he went, and he kept them for life. Wayne's passion in life was bowling, and he was quite good at it. It was there, in his bowling league, that he met the true love of his life, Barbara, and after a wonderful friendship spanning several years it seemed obvious that they were a match made in heaven, thus they were married in Sheep Mountain, California. Wayne and Barbara subsequently made their home in Ione. Wayne's second passion was automobiles, and it was not uncommon to see Wayne driving a different car every year or so… he just loved his cars! Wayne also cherished his walks around the neighborhood, and listening to the frogs every evening with his wife, Barbara and their dog, Mikki. Wayne was so proud of his beautiful bride and just loved "showing her off" whenever he had the chance! Wayne also loved making walking canes out of Manzanita wood branches, and spent many hours in his shop sanding and polishing these canes to give to the elderly as gifts. There are dozens of Wayne's canes now in use in Amador County which will no doubt be passed down to future generations! Wayne is preceeded in death by his parents, Max (Pop) and Vera (Mom), and his brother Paul, of Washington State. He is survived by his wife Barbara and eight children… Albert, Genevieve, Geraldine, Kathleen, Lyn, Nina, Christopher and Polly, as well as all of his beloved grandkids. God Bless You Wayne, we will all miss you with our whole hearts.