Clarence Merle Wrightsman

Clarence (Merle) Wrightsman

March 22, 1921 - October 7, 2021

Derby, Kansas - Clarence Wrightsman 100, known to many as “Bud”, was born in Conway Springs, KS on March 22, 1921, the 8th of 9 children to William and Margaret Wrightsman. He passed away on October 7th, 2021.

When Pearl Harbor was attacked in 1941, he was working at Cessna. He enlisted in the United States Air Corps during World War II where he flew in a B-17 as a navigator/bombardier on D-Day and over 30 other missions. He was later awarded with the Air Medal and Distinguished Flying Cross.

He was preceded in death by his wife Marie, son John Michael, brothers Gerald, Kenneth, Howard, Russell, and Lester, and sisters Elva and Velma (Hunt). He is survived by his daughter Cathy (Arnold), his son Doug, 3 grandchildren, Ginny, Aaron and Amanda, 4 great grand children and, his sister Norma (Richey).

After the war he worked briefly at Boeing where he met his wife Marie. He was later recalled to service during which time he was among the first of those to fly the B-52 as a radar navigator. After 24 years he retired as Lieutenant colonel.

He then went into business with his brother in law, Leonard.

After retiring from that business he and Marie spent the next several years traveling the US in their RV favoring the southwest. Being rock hounds along and with their love of the southwest they spent much of their time in the desert doing what rock hounds do, collecting rocks.

Summers were spent at The Lake of the Ozarks with family where he relished in driving the boat pulling the kids on skis, floats, and especially “the shark”.

They spent the latter part of their lives in Derby always surrounded by family. In his 100 years he was loved and adored by all. Known for his quick wit and sense of humor. He will be missed dearly. His life and memories will be shared for lifetimes to come.

Graveside Service with full military honors will be held on Tuesday October 12th at 10:00 am at El Paso cemetery in Derby, Kansas 67037.