Carl L. Wright, Jr.
Obituary
Carl L. Wright, Jr. was born February 10, 1924, the grandson of 1889 Land Run pioneer A.D. Wright who settled Chandler, Oklahoma. Carl graduated from Chandler High School in 1942, attended Kemper Military Academy and served in WWII under Patton’s Third Army. Wounded at the Bloody Moselle, Carl was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Following the war, childhood sweethearts Carl and Joyce Wornom married in 1947. They purchased a historic jail in Tincup, Colorado in 1948 and vacationed there for 67 years. Carl graduated with an MBA from the University of Oklahoma where he pledged Sigma Phi Epsilon. He enjoyed Sooner football and has held season tickets since 1955.
Following graduation, Carl and Joyce moved to Enid and daughters, Ann and Marti were born. Carl sold insurance in Enid; then moved to Cushing as part owner of a trucking company. Their son, James was born. The family then moved to Guadalajara, Mexico in 1970 for two years.
Always a traveler at heart, Carl and Joyce opened Horizons Unlimited Travel in Tulsa in 1975. They visited 235 countries, cruised 50+ ships and were members of Traveler’s Century Club and Circumnavigator Club. Carl was a proud member of the Rotary Club of Tulsa, Tulsa Executive Association [President 2004], and Tulsa Men’s Club.
Carl passed on May 15, 2015 at home. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Myrtle Wright of Chandler; sister, Rachel Lou Wright Dayvault of Wichita. Carl is survived by his wife Joyce; daughters and son-in-law, Ann Back, Marti and Ken Alexander; son, James Wright; grandsons, Zach Alexander, Adam Alexander and his wife, Sarah; and a great grandchild, Addison Alexander. Also surviving are his brother, Daniel Wright of El Paso, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Carl was buried in Chandler on May 20, 2015. A Memorial Service celebrating Carl’s life will be held 2:00 Friday, June 12 at Ninde Funeral Directors, Brookside Chapel. Donations may be made to World Wildlife Fund www.worldwildlife.org or Rotary Club of Tulsa www.tulsarotary.com.
Events
Tributes & Memories
As fine a human as ever walked this earth. Taught me how to chop firewood and to drive a jeep over Pearl Pass. Plus, he told me about war. I’m hoping to see him in heaven, one of these days.
John Baker
Carl Wright was a fine human being. He taught me to cut firewood in the deadwood stands near Tincup, Colorado. Carl and my father were childhood friends and they new how to party!
John Baker
Dear Joyce, Marti, Ann and James, So sorry to hear of Carl's passing. I have so many fond memories of my employment at Horizons Unlimited and with all of you!! First and Best job I ever had or ever will have and best employers ever!!! Best FAM Trips also!!!What FUN times we had!! I thank you all for the wonderful memories, wonderful travel experiences and lasting friendships. Carl was a kind and gentle man and I know we will all miss him. I am sure he is at the Best Ultimate FAM trip ever now and leading the way for everyone! Remember, travel agents never die, they just "stand by"!!! My prayers are with you all during this sad time and also a celebration of Carl's wonderful life and family. Love you all and look forward to seeing you again soon. Sincerely, Fam-Tam(still love to cruise)
Tammy (Robertson) Beshlin
I have so many fond memories of all of you. My grandma adored you! I send my love to Joyce, Ann, Marti, and James and your families. Carl was one in a million!
Mary Ann Porter Hines
Joyce, Ann, Marti and Ken and James I am so sorry for your loss. Carl was a wonderful person with a great since of humor. He lived a very long a good life. I know all of you will miss him and I will to. Love Brenda g
Brenda Gierhart
Joyce, Sharleen and I send you our deepest and heartfelt sympathy. It was our pleasure to know you and Carl and we enjoyed the trips you put together for us. We know that Carl will be missed by many. May fond memories bring peace to you and your family. Ray Yarroll
Ray and Sharleen Yarroll
Dear Joyce, Ann, Marti and James. I am sorry for your loss. I have so many great memories of Carl. His easy going manner and kindness towards his employees is something I will always be grateful to have experienced. He will be remembered for his generosity, and helpfulness. Our staff trips were so much fun and unheard of in todays business climate. I wish you all peace in the coming days.
Lori Epperson Myers
So sorry to hear of your loss. I know that you have many wonderful memories of your father and husband. He was a kind man that I remember fondly. Sincere condolences, Celia Cook Meyers
Celia Meyers