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SHELLY WRIGHT  Obituary pic SHELLY WRIGHT  Obituary pic SHELLY WRIGHT  Obituary pic

SHELLY WRIGHT

Born: Sep 27, 1962

Date of Passing: Jun 19, 2012

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SHELLY WRIGHT Shelly left her loved ones on June 19, 2012 in ICU at St. Boniface Hospital. Her body had been overwhelmed by infection. Her immune system was not up to the task after five heart surgeries, kidney dialysis of a year and a kidney from her sister over the past twenty five years. Her body said enough already and her brain said so be it. Shelly was a fighter and lived her life with tenacity! Shelly was born September 27, 1962 in Thompson to delighted parents, Joan and Grant Wright. She grew up in Thompson doing all the kid things, piano lessons, skating, skiing, brownies, girl guides. She stuffed newspapers at her family's business - The Thompson Citizen and the Nickel Belt News. As part of her education, Shelly spent two years, Grade 11 e went off to the University of Manitoba, to obtain her bacheloand 12, in Fairbault, MN attending Shattuck-St. Mary's boarding school. From there, shr's degree in political science, after which, she returned to Thompson. Back into the family fold and like her father started writing. She was foremost a reporter, but also a typist, proof-reader and extreme editor. Her favourite form of writing was the editorial. Which on several occasions stirred much controversy in her home town, but always created conversation. She was ready to take up a cause she felt was worthwhile, and cared deeply for her community and the people in it. But with every true family business, there was the occasional showdown between family members. At one point, her mother remembers trying to correct Shelly's spelling and was told in return to go and learn how to type. And so she did, mother Joan took up the challenge and started typesetting. Family dynamics always played a role at the Citizen office, and when all fours 'Wrights were in the house, things could be complicated. To this day, the family jokes that Shelly liked being a reporter to escape the office. Due to her health, Shelly decided to move back to Winnipeg in her early 30s to be closer to doctors and medical facilities. She still would write for the paper, but her works consisted of many hours of research. During this time, she would travel when possible, spending time with family in Florida, or taking a road trip with parents. Her love of writing took many forms and while recovering from her surgeries, she wrote several complete books to keep from going crazy. Her subject matter ranged from family drama, to small town America, using various locations and landscapes and backdrops. She has even self-published two novels that were available on Amazon under the name Drake Worthington. Reading was also a definite passion. Didn't matter the subject, she did love all types - fiction, autobiographies, etc. In fact, her sister joked that she should have written a few romance novels to make a name for herself first, then she could write what ever she liked. After selling the family business in 2007, Shelly stayed in the city, but took on the task, with her partner, Mike to rebuild the family cabin. What started as a leaky roof, and some needed upgraded became a three year saga, that is still underway. She wasn't a very good carpenter's apprentice, as there was a lot of grumbling, but she had no problem scrambling up on the roof to bring tools, pick up shingles, and even help dig in the muck. Shelly's family will celebrate her life with fond memories, love and remembering her spirit, which will be our push to get on with it as Shelly would say. Shelly leaves her partner, Michael Wright, Mother - Joan Wright, Sister - Carolyn Wright, Nieces Rebecca, Mary, and Kimberley Drapack. The family wishes to acknowledge the wonderful care of the Manitoba Health System all these years. We are lucky to live here. A heartfelt thanks to the expert care in St. Boniface Hospital ICU. Cremation has taken place and a family service will be held at a later date. 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 22, 2012

Condolences & Memories (34 entries)

  • Shelly used to babysit our wee daughter when we first moved to Thompson and took up residence in Princeton Towers. Many years later Erin came to work alongside of Shelly and the Wright family. Shelly shot straight from the hip even as a youngster. I remember a time when we were invited to the Wrights for a gathering and Joan told us that she had asked Shelly to vacuum the rug to which Shelly replied what was the point since it would just get messed up immediately anyway. Joan was inclined to agree. That strong opinion and common sense made a big impression on me. I am so sorry for the loss - so long and brave a struggle. Our condolences to Joan, Carolyn and the girls and Mike. - Posted by: Marion and Grif Hodge (friends from Thompson) on: Dec 31, 2012

  • Our deepest sympathies to Mike and family. We are so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Gerry and Carmel (Neighbors in St.Pierre) on: Jul 14, 2012

  • I proudly worked for your family when I was a young boy, delivering papers door to door. I'm very sorry about your family losing a loved one, our condolences from our family in Thompson. - Posted by: Earl Timmons (Past Employee) on: Jun 28, 2012

  • My deepest sympathy to Joan and family. Even though I never really got to know Shelly or Carolynn my parents would pass on any information of the Wright’s in Thompson. - Posted by: Lynn Grant (Cousin of Grant's) on: Jun 28, 2012

  • I have many fond memories of being with Shelly at the cabin in Paint Lake, in Florida, San Francisco, Hawaii and various road trips around Canada, she was an influential part of my childhood, exposed me to different ideas, culture and experiences. I'm sorry to have lost contact in my adult years. She was funny and always offered an alternative perspective to the norm. I'm sure she will be remembered with many smiles and much laughter. My sympathies go out to Joan Carolyn, family and friends. - Posted by: Jason Dubery (Friend) on: Jun 27, 2012

  • Deeply sorry for your loss. Shelly took the time to share some unforgettable personal insights in a sympathy card just last summer. I was surprised to hear of her early passing. - Posted by: Dawna Smith (Family friend) on: Jun 27, 2012

  • Our deepest sympathies to Joan, Mike, Carolyn and family from the Locker family. Our families were friends from Flin Flon days and through the many years residing in Thompson since the early 1960's. Saddened to hear of this terrible loss. - Posted by: Stella Locker, Bob Locker, Susan Buckle (Friends of the Wright family) on: Jun 25, 2012

  • Shelly will always rank at the top of our favourite people list. She was brilliant, beautiful,insightful, hilarious, curious, exceptionally kind hearted and most of all a fighter. She is a remarkable role model to us all. Shelly embraced life with zest. When we think of her , which is often, we picture her smiling, or stating her point of view, or amazing us with her vast knowledge or just having a good laugh. We shared great times and sad times. We are grateful for having known her. She enriched our lives and warmed countless hearts. We read her novels and saw her talent and creativity. We are so sad. We will always remember her with great affection. Joan and family, you are in our hearts. Theresa and Malcolm McDonald, and our sons Graham and Donald - Posted by: Theresa and Malcolm McDonald (friends) on: Jun 25, 2012

  • To Joan & Family, Simple heartfelt condolences, not having the great gift of words of your daughter. - Posted by: Doug & Lois Meikle (Friends .Thompson 64/74 --Edm) on: Jun 25, 2012

  • I am so sorry Joan to hear of your loss. I can't imagine the sorrow. Be strong. May God bless. - Posted by: Kris Laxdal ( Joan's '59B classmate) on: Jun 25, 2012

  • So sorry to hear of Shelly's passing. I always admired her strength in being such a presence in Thompson despite her physical struggles. I'll always remember our interviews which often turned into debates on issues related to the City of Thompson and more specifically how they were being administered from City Hall. You could always count on Shelly to tell you exactly what was on her mind. As I think back I don't remember ever feeling as though I came out on top after one of those discussions There's no doubt she will be greatly missed. Jenine and I extend our sincere condolences to Joan and the family - Posted by: Wayne Morrissey (Long Time Professional Relationship ) on: Jun 24, 2012

  • My thoughts and prayers are with you, Joan, at this sad time of your loss. Stay strong. - Posted by: Helen Sterzer (Friend of Joan) on: Jun 24, 2012

  • We are very sad to hear that Shelly passed on. Although it was her heart that caused her so much pain and suffering, it is that very heart that we are mourning. Our thoughts are with you all. We remember her fondly. - Posted by: Susan Harrison and Gordon Simes (friends) on: Jun 24, 2012

  • Sorry to hear of the sad news. Our thoughts are with the family at this time. Shelly will long be remembered for her outgoing personality and contribution to the City of Thompson. Bunny & Bill Kane - Posted by: Bunny & Bill Kane (Family Friends) on: Jun 24, 2012

  • My deepest sympathy goes out to you Joan, and your family. What a terrible loss. May you always find comfort in the many happy memories you have shared. - Posted by: Carol Kirkhope (friend of Joan's) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • I will always remember and miss you. You not only touched my life you touched my soul. Pleasant journeys my beautiful friend. - Posted by: Trevor Wowk (Will love her forever) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • Joan: Our thoughts and prayers ...some hugs as well.. - Posted by: Evans and Mardene Premachuk ("Old" friends of Joan and Grant) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • Our deepest condolences Joan and family on the loss of your daughter Shelly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. - Posted by: Bob & Linda Gilroy (Newspaper Family Friends) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • When we were 17, Shelly shared a quote from Louisa May Alcott with me. “ A faithful friend is a strong defense; and he that hath found him hath found a treasure”. Anyone touched by Shelly’s friendship knows she was that and much more. Funny, smart, curious, caring and dynamic (just for starters). Her wide range of interests was inspiring, energizing and informative. She was genuinely interested in what mattered to her community. Whether we were “solving the world’s problems” or just sharing some “bon mots”, I could count on a good and interesting time when we got together. Shelly taught me a lot about friendship by deed and example. A true Wright, a true original and a treasured friend. Condolences to Mrs. Wright, Mike, Carolyn, Rebecca, Mary and Kimberley. - Posted by: Suzanne Soble (Friend) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • Stan and I were so sorry to hear Shelley had left us. However, her body knew it was time to end the suffering. Stan knew Shelley longer than I did and would know a lot more of her activities over the years. I knew Shelley as a very wise and hard working person. She was a real fighter to be able to go through all the medical problems and still be the beautiful person she was. We will all miss her and send all our love to the family. - Posted by: Elsie and Stan Reid (Friends) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • Dear Joan, We are deeply saddened to read of the loss of your Darling Daughter Shelley. Our Love and Deepest Heartfelt Sympathy goes out to You and All Your Family. Jackie Sewell & Family - Posted by: Jacqueline Sewell (Friend ) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • Summers were the best when our 2 families got together and I was able to spend time with my little cousins Shelly and Caroline. I only wish we had lived closer and could spend more time together. Shelly inspired me, I loved reading her articles, comments etc. Joan lovingly made sure the extended family got copies of the paper to read. Aunt Betty was really proud of Shelly (and Caroline too) and made sure to pass on those articles so I could enjoy them too. I'll miss you Shelly...raise a little hell in heaven. Till we meet again. xoxo - Posted by: Karen Pearson (Cousin) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • To continue... (sorry, not sure why the end of my message got cut off) My condolences to Shelly's whole family. - Posted by: Shannon Farrell-Timlick (Family friend) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • I worked for the Wrights cleaning their newspaper office when the first started and later for a few months after I graduated from U. I only got to know the girls, Carolyn and Shelly later in life. I always enjoyed Shelly's editorials, controversial or not. She told it like she saw it... a family tradition! Carolyn giving one kidney to her sister touched everyone in town. I admired her tenacity for overcoming her health challenges for all those years. Marsha and I offer our condolences to the family! It's a sad day. - Posted by: Volker Beckmann (Friend) on: Jun 23, 2012

  • I remember driving my brother Grant's vette as Shelly called. The brakes on the vette were very poor at times. Shelly was a small child riding beside me on the passenger side. We drove down the steep hill coming from from Paint Lake to join the Thompson Highway. All of a sudden no brakes and we headed for the deep ditch on other side with cars both ways on the highway. Shelly and I swung her hard to the right and landed on the far side of the highway facing south teetered on the edge of a big ditch then rolled to a screeching stop on the shoulder!, Shelly loved adventure! She and I sure had a good one that time! But she helped me survive even as a small girl! Shelly thought her adventure a lark but aunty was the one shaking! Thanks for taking me out to supper in Thompson so many times. Thanks for lively conversations! Thanks for being my flower girl! You fell asleep on the couch in your lovely green dress and cute white shoes. I still have a picture of you sleeping so sweetly on the couch in our living room in Flin Flon and a picture of me age 19 holding you in my arms! Your life was well done Shelly! I was so proud of you as was Grant! You were chips off the same block,smart,savvy wise, readers, deep thinkers and authors! I miss you! - Posted by: Joy-Ann Wright (Aunt) on: Jun 22, 2012

  • I grew up a friend of Carolyn's, and to be truthful- I was always a bit intimidated by Shelly! She was always such a presence and such confidence! I couldn't even guess at how long it has been since I've seen her. - Posted by: Shannon Farrell-Timlick (Family friend) on: Jun 22, 2012

  • I remember a little 9 year old girl in Thompson riding her bike everywhere and coming to visit me in my apartment. She loved the cabin at Paint Lake and going boating on Paint Lake and the trips to Florida and swimming in the ocean with her mom and dad. I remember Shelly and Carolynn asking Joan for frozen freezer pops made from juice on a hot summer day. They were then 3 and 6 years old playing with friends on their Riverside sidewalk. Shelly embraced life and loved a lively conversation. She took on many causes to help her community! Like her father Shelly was a fighter and lived every day to the fullest. Even at low times Shelly got on with it! I will always remember her! I love you Shelly! Well done! Aunt Joy - Posted by: Joy-Ann Wright McMaster (Aunt) on: Jun 22, 2012

  • We met only briefly but we knew as a daughter of Joan...she's a Wright!! - Posted by: Geo & Karen Komanac (Friends!!) on: Jun 22, 2012

  • Growing up across the street from the Wrights, one thing was certain, Shelly was a force of nature. If she was in a room, you knew it. She had a great presence. Strong willed and determined. Smart. She was a wonderful friend to my sister over the years and to our family. I remember stuffing newspapers alongside Shelly at the 'Citizen' a few times as a kid. Shelly had a wild sense of humour; creative and unpredictable. Always a personality. Reading about the occasional tension amongst family at the Citizen made me remember about working for Shelly's father Grant for two years, everyday after school, delivering newspapers to the paperboys in town in Mr. Wrights 'chevette'. Shelly called it the family 'vette'. The 'bundle-run' was the best job I ever had. Whether any conversation was in the offing on any particular day or not with her father didn't matter. It was always the best conversation regardless. Shelly was just like her Dad that way. A warm personality wrapped by a layer of introspection, opinion, curiosity and brilliance. Condolences to Mrs. Wright, Carolyn, Mike and the rest of the Wright clan. - Posted by: Kyle Soble (Friend) on: Jun 22, 2012

  • What a terrible loss. Shelly was a light in this world. She gave me courage to join her in a hot air balloon ride, something I'll never forget! Sleep sweetly Shelly. We'll miss your magic. - Posted by: Linda Lindsay (Adventure Partner) on: Jun 22, 2012

  • My first memory of Shelly is from Karen`s wedding. Shelly wasn`t feeling well and had to remain at the hotel while the rest of us went to ceremony, Shelly said she would be fine because she would read to her Dad who happily stayed back with her. Sweet, spicey Shelly touched more lives than she knew. - Posted by: Marci Tucker (Cousin) on: Jun 22, 2012

  • Shelly's Grandfather and Grandmother were friends of our family in building Flin Flon in the 1930's. Her Mother and Father were our friends in building Thompson in the 60's. Our chidren were first born in Thompson and were summer lake friends at our cabins. Our sincere sympathy goes to all her family and friends who have lost a still young, well loved and deeply cared about lady. We are deeply saddened~ Braun Family ~Peace be with you~ - Posted by: Monica and Bernie Braun (Three generations of Northern Manitoba family friends) on: Jun 22, 2012

  • I'm saddened extremely that I never had the chance to know this beautiful, caring lady ,of whom we will only have precious memories. My condolences to the family. - Posted by: marie tanasichuk (mother -in -law) on: Jun 22, 2012

  • I was so shocked and sorry to read of Shelly's passing. I always think of Shelly as having a zest for life and learning. She was always a little bit unpredictable but always a lot of fun and a good friend. I will carry fond memories of Shelly always. Condolences to Joan, Carolyn, Mike and family. - Posted by: Elaine Kendall (Friend) on: Jun 22, 2012

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