David Wrightsel

David Franklin Wrightsel, passed very peacefully in the comfort of his family on September 18, 2010. He is survived by his wife, the former Karen Martin, whom he married on May 21, 1998. Dave was a hard-working, fun-loving man who loved his family, instilled great values in his children, embraced his friends, and believed in honor and duty to his country. He was an avid fan of The Ohio State University Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns. Dave was a member of the VFW Post #62 and the AmVets. Dave was born on June 9, 1933, in McArthur, OH. The son of Lantz A. and Flora Saltz Wrightsel, he was the fourth of five children. Upon his graduation from McArthur High School in 1951, he enlisted in the US Navy where he served on the USS Belle Grove as a communications specialist during the Korean Conflict with duty tours from the Bering Straits of Alaska to the Philippines. He was blessed with three children, Kimberly (Don) Hardin, of Champaign, IL; Bret (Linette) Wrightsel, Chillicothe; and Whitney (Jill Jay John) Wrightsel, of Westerville, OH; their mother, Marilyn (Tom) Fusner, Chillicothe; his granddaughter Riley Wrightsel, Chillicothe; Karen's children: David and Kelly; Karen's 8 grandchildren; and his two sisters Margaret, of Fairview Park, OH; and Julia, of Upper Arlington, OH. He was predeceased by brothers Richard and MacDonald Wrightsel. Upon honorable discharge, Dave attended Rio Grande College where he received his B.A. in Education. He began his teaching career in McArthur and then accepted a position at Smith Junior High School in Chillicothe in 1960. There he taught 7th grade mathematics and 8th grade science. He was also hired to coach basketball, football and track and served as the school's Athletic Director for several years. Dave was extremely passionate about basketball and officiated at many levels including collegiate for 20 years. In 1966, he went into partnership with his brother, Dick, to develop the successful business of Ross-Co Redi Mix. His final work venture was as the Ross County Veterans Service Officer where he served helping his fellow Southern Ohio Veterans for 22 years. Military graveside services conducted by the Ross County Veterans Honor Guard will be held at 1:00pm Saturday, September 25, in Elk Cemetery, McArthur, OH, under the direction of Haller Funeral Home. At his request, calling hours will not be observed. Family, friends and comrades are invited to attend a celebration of Dave's life at the Cross Keys Restaurant, 17 E. Main St., Chillicothe, from 5-8pm Saturday. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Adena Hospice, 111 W. Water St., Chillicothe, OH 45601.
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