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WRIGHT -- Kenneth Dale Wright (known to all his friends and family as Kenny) passed away on February 17, 2004, at the age of 57. Kenny was born in Marysville, Ca., to Johnnie and Nadeane Wright. Kenny, always an entrepreneur and always with his partner and friend of 36 years, Arthur Walker by his side, had a variety of interests and were involved in many undertakings. The duo owned a night club called ALFALFA 'S, a favorite hangout of young people in the 1970's, and introduced such musicians as Willie Nelson to Albuquerque night club audiences. He was always the visionary and brought other musicians to perform in his establishments, many have gone on to become famous in their fields. He owned and operated other very popular dining places in Albuquerque, such as the Rio Grande Cantina, and for a time operated the Conchas Lodge at Conchas Lake, New Mexico. Kenny was a collector of fine art and antique cars. Always the artist his establishments were always decorated with interesting pieces of sculpture and paintings. He elegantly framed and displayed such items as antique burlap potato sacks and they became objects of art and topics of conversation. One of the bronze sculptures he owned and displayed in his business establishment was of Pancho Villa, who was an important and relevant figure in the history of his father's family. Kenny was an artist of great skill and made many of the handsome and elegant posters he used in advertising his establishments. Kenny is survived by his wife of 19 years, Magda Garcia Wright; and his daughter, Marisol. Kenny is also survived by his father, Johnnie E. Wright of Belen, New Mexico; brother, Johnnie Rhea Wright of Amarillo, Texas; sisters, Vivian Pool of Carlsbad, California, and Charlotte Newbill of Coppell, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews. Kenny would be proud if his many friends made contributions to their favorite charities in his memory. A Memorial Service will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 619 Copper NW. on Friday, February 20, 2004 at 10:30 a.m. Arrangements by Direct Funeral Services, 2919 4th ST. NW. ABQ. 505-343-8008.
        Published on: Thu February 19, 2004