Joseph Gerard Wright passed away suddenly on June 19, 2022 at his home. He was born on June 16, 1965 to Harvey and Aldona Wright.  He was a life long resident of Lake County, IL with most recently residing at his home in Winthrop Harbor, IL.

He was a graduate of St. Bartholomew school in 1979 and Waukegan West High School in 1983.  Joe attended St. Norbert College in DePere, WI.  He transferred to Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, IL where he received his Bachelor Arts degree with a major in Sociology in 1988.

Joe had a long and successful career in Research and Development with Abbott Laboratories/AbbVie Inc for over 30 years.  For the last 6 years, Joe was a Trial Disclosure Associate responsible for updating AbbVie's clinical trial information on public websites.  His colleagues became Joe's endearing second family.

Joe was true symbol of a gentleman.  He was the most generous and loving person and would help anyone in need always thinking of others.  He was so very dedicated to his family especially taking care of his mother prior to her death in 2019 and most recently caring for his elderly father.

Joe was an avid sports fan.  He loved watching the Chicago Bears, Cubs, Blackhawks and Notre Dame sports.  He was thrilled to see his beloved Cubbies win the World Series in 2016.  He also enjoyed going to concerts, festivals and spending time with his family and friends.  If Joe was not with family and friends, he was at St. Pete Beach in Florida.  This was truly his happy place.

Joe's world became complete in July 2013 when he met the love of his life, Karen Peterson also of Waukegan. Common activities they enjoyed together included their love for music and the theatre.

Joe is survived by his father Harvey Wright of Waukegan, IL and his siblings Joan (Scott) Rexroat of Lake in the Hills, IL and Michael (Heather) Wright of San Diego, CA, nephews Aidan Wright and Ryan Rexroat,  many cousins and a very special friend Karen Peterson of Waukegan, IL.  Joe also leaves behind his beloved dog, Emma. He was preceded in death by his mother Aldona Wright, nephew Christopher Rexroat and niece Kaitlyn Rexroat.  Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday, June 27, 2022 at 10am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 450 Keller Avenue, Waukegan, IL.  Visitation will be at the church at 9am until the time of Mass at 10am.  Interment to follow at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville, IL.  In lieu of flowers, masses and/or donations to Holy Family Church (Most Blessed Trinity Parish) would be appreciated.