Charles R. “Dick” Wright, age 80, passed away peacefully on January 5th 2026, in his home in Butte, Montana.
Dick was born on October 18th 1945, in Maryland, Washington, to Charles and Veronica Wright. He grew up surrounded by his sisters, Judy Ryland and Donna Renn. He was a loving father to Joe and Paul Wright, and a proud stepfather to Kenny McGivern and Misti Crossman. Dick was also a cherished uncle to his sister Judy’s children; David Lanahan (wife Kathy) and
Lisa Macleod (husband Paul). Most importantly, Dick was the devoted husband to the love of his life, Kathleen Wright (Beck). The two met and fell in love in 1998 and were married in 2003 in Springerville, Arizona. Their marriage was filled with adventure, laughter, and deep companionship that lasted until the very end.
Dick was a proud union electrician with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), beginning his career at just 19 years old. He dedicated his entire working life to the trade and retired in 2010 at the age of 64. Alongside Kathy, Dick spent nearly 20 years traveling the United States in a fifth-wheel camper, following his work and embracing the freedom of the road. They eventually returned to Kathy’s hometown of Butte, Montana, following his retirement. Dick’s brotherhood within the IBEW was a source of immense pride for him, and he loved sharing stories from his years on the job with his union brothers. Those memories remained with him always. Memories even dementia could not take away.
In 2021, Dick was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, followed by dementia in 2025. Despite the challenges of his later years, he continued to live surrounded by love, especially from his beloved wife and their dogs, Daisey May, Rusty Roy, and Miss Bella. Though Parkinson’s made getting around difficult, nothing could stop Dick from spending time with his
brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Cindy, whom he loved deeply. Some of his favorite memories were made alongside them. Camping, fishing, riding four wheelers, weekly dinner dates, and never missing Butte’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. No matter where life or work took him and Kathy in the earlier years, Dick always found his way back to Butte to spend the holiday he loved most, with Jerry and their friends. Dick will be fondly remembered for his Irish scally hats, the familiar sweet scent of his tobacco pipe, dying
his beard green every year for St. Patrick’s day, and the amazing stories he loved to share.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Veronica Wright, grandparents, and his brother-in-law, Ron Ryland.
Dick is survived by his wife, Kathleen Wright-Beck; his sisters, Judy Ryland and Donna (Jarl) Renn. His children, Joe and Paul Wright; his stepchildren, Kenny McGivern and Misti (Josh) Crossman; along with many nieces, nephews, step grandchildren, cousins, friends, and other loved ones.
A private celebration of life will be held by Dick’s wife and family.
“May the road rise up to meet you,
may the wind be always at your back,
may the sun shine warm upon your face,
and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
Axelson Funeral & Cremations is privileged to care for Dick and his family.
Please visit below to leave a condolence or share a memory of Dick.
Cathy and Ricky Boyet says
We are so sorry for y’all’s loss of Dick. We will always remember the good times we all had at Derby Acres in Diamondhead. Take care of yourself, Kathy. We love you. God Bless you all with Fond Memories and Comfort And Peace.
Donna says
You sure found your Mr Wright. Our condolences to you my sweet friend.
Cathy Boyet says
Kathy, sorry I messed up the other post with the word Diamondhead, that was automatically placed in and I didn’t realize it until seeing it now. It should have said in California. Of course, you know that. You were there. We fid have some wonderful times together, didn’t we? I love you, Kathy. Take care of yourself.
Ruth Morrow says
Dick and Kathy were always one step away when I needed them. His support delivering necessities to my mother’s house during COVID when we could not leave the house. Millions of dinners he would not take payment and wonderful visits while Kathy created wonderful dishes. We all loved him and will always keep him in our hearts. Ruth Morrow
Elaine Hill says
We met Dick and Kathy in California, and lived in the same campground with them in Arizona. Too many cook outs to list, and sooooo many get togethers, at the American Legion, in Arizona. When you form friendships in the I.B.E.W. they are for life and beyond. My husband (JIMMIE HILL} better known as LOBO went to be with the Lord in 2010, but I KNOW FOR A FACT, that DICK WRIGHT was one of his favorite BROS. Hope they are both in Heaven enjoying one another’s company again. Kathy, I am so sorry for lose, if you need anything; remember THE WHOLE I.B.E.W. IS HERE…I do not say this blindly; I know this for a fact. When Lobo passed away they were there…SWEET MEMORIES.
Bobbie Stodden says
Kathy and family, very sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. I know the past year has been difficult. May the many good memories you and Dick created help you through this sad time. Take care.
JANICE CLARK MUNIZ says
My love & prayers to Kathy, Kenny, Misti, the furbaby’s and all of Dick’s family and friends.
May his memories hold dear in your hearts.
Dick was such a wonderful guy and he loved Kathy so very much. and she loved him just as much.
If I can do anything for the family, please let me know,
My heart is broken .
Janice Muniz
Misti Crossman says
Dick (Grandpa)
This man was a shining light, illuminating the world around him. When Dick spoke, his words carried weight, inspiring all who listened. If anyone has earned their place in the heavens, it’s this remarkable man. His heart was full of generosity, always putting others first. Your absence will be deeply felt, your memory cherished forever. I hope you’re now riding the wind on your Harley, feeling the freedom and joy that comes with eternal peace. Thank you for being a source of strength and comfort to me and my family. Your grandchildren adored you ❤️
I hope you took your Go Daddy’s (Hey Dudes) with you. He could never remember what they were called, so forever we will always refer to them as Go Daddies.
Love you Misti and family
Erlinda Herrera says
I was so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. He and Kathy were always so nice to me. My deepest sympathy to Kathy and family. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. I will miss him sitting near us at Mass.