Rick Wright, chief executive officer of Market of Choice, passed away from natural causes at his home in Eugene on Sunday. He was age 62.
Wright built his vision for Market of Choice on the foundation of his family’s legacy. He worked with his father, Richard Wright Sr., to grow the one-time small discount grocery chain into the largest independent, family-owned grocer in Oregon. In so doing, he moved Market of Choice decidedly upmarket.
The younger Wright would go on to spend 46 years working at Market of Choice.
“Wright knew the importance of creating a special shopping experience, taking pride in stocking more 7,000 locally-sourced products at its 12 stores across the state. He helped redefine what a grocery store can be – not just a place to buy food, but a force for sustaining local economies, fostering innovation, and nourishing the spirit of Oregon. At his core, Wright was a steward of good food, of local communities, and of people,” said a release from Market of Choice.
Wright contributed philanthropically to Doernbecher Freestyle, Angel Hair Foundation, Food For Lane County, Kidsports, and others.
Personally, Wright enjoyed travelling the world to watch his wife’s dance competitions and pursue his passions — auto racing and surfing. He is survived by his wife Debbie, mother Marsha, siblings Suzyn, Craig, and Laurie, children Zach, Staci, and Sydney, and grandchildren Mina and Finley.
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