Steven M. Wright, 60
Steven M. Wright, age 60, of Plover, died April 14, 2014.
Steven was born August 25, 1953 to Thomas & Mildred (Benson) Wright in Oak Park, IL. He grew up in Itasca, IL, attended the local schools and graduated from Lake Park High School in 1971.
He married the love of his life, his high school sweetheart, Margaret “Peggy” Neradt, on March 8, 1975 at St Paul’s United Church of Christ in Bloomingdale, IL.
Following high school, Steve attended Elmhurst College, receiving his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry/Education in 1975. He received his PhD from Marquette University in Inorganic Chemistry in 1980.
Steve taught 2 years at Lakeland College in Sheboygan, WI. In 1982, he accepted a position at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point as a Professor of Chemistry. He dedicated 32 years of his life to teaching chemistry, was expected to retire in May, and was going to grand marshal the UWSP graduation ceremony in May. During his tenure, he conducted demonstrations at local elementary schools to inspire children’s love for science, and he earned the respect of his colleagues and students. Steve won the University teaching award twice while at UWSP. He also brought family stories into his published articles, blending his two greatest passions: family and teaching.
Steve will be remembered for his enthusiastic persona and dedication to his family. He lived for spending time with his wife, children, and granddaughters. Over the years you could find him scoring his daughters’ and niece’s gymnastics meets, running the field as a sideline soccer coach, or just finding a quiet spot to curl up and listen to whatever you wanted to talk about. Steve also enjoyed remaining active. He participated in a monthly triathlon or running race. When he wasn’t training, you might find him on the golf course, behind the wheel of a ski boat, water skiing, or snow skiing. Steve was a talented ballroom dancer and enjoyed dancing the night away with his wife. He was a devoted member of St Paul’s United Methodist Church and the “Boys of Wednesday.” He also belonged to the YMCA, Stevens Point Country Club, and Whiting Dinner and Dance Club. Family and friends will miss his welcoming smile, listening ear, and joking nature.
Steve is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Peggy of Plover; daughters, Aimee (Dan) Wierzba of Verona, Kelly (RP) Petrowski of Madison, and Beth Wright of Chicago, IL; grandchildren, Natilie & Ava Wierzba; brother, Tim (Betty) Wright of Eagle River; and sister, Joan (Paul) Nelson of Itasca, IL. He is further survived by his father-in-law, Daniel Neradt; brother-in-law, Bob (Donna) Neradt of St Charles, IL and numerous nieces, nephews, & cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom & Mickey; and mother-in-law, Margaret Neradt.
A service will be held 11:00 am, Saturday, April 19, 2014 at St Paul’s United Methodist Church with Rev. Howard Hintzman officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday from 4:00 pm to 8:00pm at the church and on Saturday from 10:00 am until the time of service.
For those who would like to further remember & honor Steve, please bring your running gear for a tribute run/walk following the service. Online condolences may be made at www.bostonfuneralhome.net.
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