Marlys Elaine Wright

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Marlys Wright of Climax, MN. She was born on October 12, 1945 as the eldest child of Ingolf and Myrtle Rotvold and returned to glory on July 19, 2024. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Timmy, and the love her of life, Thomas Wright.

Marlys graduated at the top of her class from Climax High School and would go on to earn her bachelor’s degree in three years from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Marlys met Tom when she was fifteen years old, and they married on June 22, 1968. She was an English teacher in Halstad and Hendrum before relocating to Arizona and having two children, Tara and Heath.

Marlys worked for the Maryvale School District before becoming a longtime librarian for Mesa Public Schools. She worked throughout the district and is remembered fondly by generations of students and teachers.

She was a beacon of hospitality, known for hosting legendary sleepovers when her children were young, celebratory pool parties as they grew into adulthood, and delightful Christmas cookie gatherings for her granddaughter and her friends. She loved cheering on the Vikings and always made sure everyone was comfortable during weekends at the Nascar races.

Marlys leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and abiding friendship through her children, Tara and Heath (Jen), her beloved granddaughter, Veva Blu, and her bonus grandchildren, Jason, Justin and Jenna. She is survived by her siblings, LaDonna, Joel, Irvin and Daniel. She will be missed by her nieces and nephews and their children. We thank Marlys for always doing the worrying for us, and we know she will find a way to continue to look after her loved ones. We will remember her fondly when we stroll through museums, spend the day at art festivals, or go to the ballet.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 11 am at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 612 South Ellsworth Road, Mesa, AZ, followed by refreshments. The Arizona sun is hot and relentless. Please dress casually. Marlys loved flowers and she loved supporting the arts in her community.