John K. Wright, age 77 of Elwood, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, January 11, 2026 after a very brief illness.  He was born May 3, 1948, the first born son of John E. and Mary L. (Carmichael) Wright.  John was a 1966 graduate of Wendell L. Willkie High School in Elwood where he excelled in running track and cross-country.  He later graduated from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in 1976 in the 45th class of the academy.  John served on the Elwood Police Department from 1976 to 2008 where he was highly respected by the community.  He attained the rank of Captain and also served as the Assistant Police Chief during his 32 years of service.  John was currently a member of the Elwood City Council and formerly served as President of the council where he was known for fairness and integrity.  His term started in 2008 from 2011; and currently 2016 to present.  John married Sherry White on December 31, 1999, and they shared 26 years of marriage together.

John cared about the community through not only his words, but his actions.  He coached Babe Ruth baseball and girls softball for many years in addition to serving on the Board of Zoning Appeals for multiple terms.  John was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police #82 in Elwood, formerly the Elwood Jaycee's, and the Elwood Elks Lodge #368.  He especially enjoyed playing men's and co-ed softball, basketball, and playing on the Elwood Church League for many years.  Leadership was a hallmark of John's life.

In his free time, John enjoyed woodworking for many years - making a variety of things for friends and family.  Snakes and reptiles were some of his favorite things having several special pets through the years.  He also was a substitute teacher in the Elwood school system whenever he was called upon the help.  John was a friend to nearly everyone and never knew a stranger.  More than anything, John's family was the pride of his life, and he will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandpa who will never be forgotten.

John's family includes his wife, Sherry Wright of Elwood; 4 children, J.P. (Liz) Wright of Elwood, J.C. (Melanie) Wright of Alexandria, Nathan Plue of Elwood, and Hannah (Jon) Sexton of Anderson; sister, Donna Erickson of Converse; 7 grandchildren, Savannah (Dylan) Downey, Jonathan (Alexa) Wright, Jordyn (Colt) Reichart, Kennedy Heim, Shelby Sexton, Khloe Sexton, and Bentley Sexton; 7 great-grandchildren, Quincy Cooper, Miller Downey, Landry Downey, Zaine Wright, Alister Wright, Maverick Wright, and Kit Reichart; and several nieces and nephews.  John was preceded in death by both his parents and his father-in-law, Larry White.

A funeral service celebrating John's life and legacy will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, January 16, 2026 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with his good friend, Rich Leavell officiating.  Burial will follow in the Elwood City Cemetery and will include an escort by the officers of the Elwood Police Department.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 3 to 7 pm on Thursday, January 15th at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Elwood Cops & Kids Program through the funeral home.  Friends and family may leave condolences at copherfeslermay.com.