In Memory: Frederick "Fred" Wright, Jr.

Dear Laurentian Community,

I write today with the sad news that Frederick "Fred" Wright Jr. has died at age 57. Fred was a custodian and beloved member of the St. Lawrence community for 23 years before retiring earlier this year. He courageously fought a long and difficult illness and was surrounded by his loving family when he passed, including his wife Vicky, a valued member of our Facilities Operations team.

Born on November 19, 1966, Fred grew up in Canandaigua, New York, and held his family and outdoor pursuits close to his heart. He was an avid outdoorsman, known for his passion for hunting, fishing, and passing down these skills to his children and grandchildren. To Fred, time spent outdoors with loved ones was time well spent, and his greatest joy came from these shared moments.

Fred’s family—Vicky; his children Jason, Christopher, Brittany, and Terry; and his treasured grandchildren—were his pride and his purpose. He found immense fulfillment in being with them, whether gathered for family dinners, riding ATVs, or enjoying fishing trips. Despite his illness, Fred continued to focus on making memories with his family, cherishing every moment with them.

As we remember Fred and support our colleague Vicky and their close-knit family, we reflect on the quiet heroism Fred displayed in his everyday life, the resilience he embodied in his final months, and the kindness he shared with all who knew him.

Please join us in celebrating Fred’s life by sharing your memories of him on the St. Lawrence University website. You can read the remembrances of others here.

Sincerely,

Kate Morris