'A light to anyone'

COEUR d'ALENE — Donations and tributes are pouring in for the family of a Kootenai Health doctor who recently died.

Jonathan Wright, 35, died Aug. 11 in a camping accident, according to reports.

The husband and father of four worked at Kootenai Health for two years and made a big impact.

"His influence on the people of our hospital and community will remain in place indefinitely," according to a statement from the hospital. "Dr. Wright will be remembered by his colleagues as both an incredible friend and provider. He had an indescribable essence about him that made people feel safe, cared for and heard. Kootenai Health extends its deepest sympathy to his friends and loved ones for their loss."

A GoFundMe account with a goal of $60,000 has raised nearly $80,000 and donors are offering comforting words to the family and high praise for Wright.

"Jonathan was a light to anyone who got the privilege to know him — ultimately, the most meaningful way to honor him is to treat others with kindness and love," it states on the GoFundMe page.

Wright was dedicated to his faith, family and work, friends said.

"Thinking of you all! Such an amazing selfless man, so glad I had met him and got to know him. I love y’all," wrote Jessica Zink.

James Elam wrote this about Wright:

"In the heart of our community, there burned a luminous soul named Johnathan Wright. His presence radiated a brilliance that set him apart, a beacon of light that illuminated even the darkest corners of our lives. His countenance held a glow that seemed to have caught the sun's own rays and bottled them up within him, releasing warmth and kindness wherever he walked. It was as if his veins coursed not just with blood, but with compassion itself."

Rebecca Charbonneau-Fuchs, a nurse at Kootenai Health, offered this online tribute:

"I worked alongside Dr. Wright in the ED at Kootenai. He was always composed, compassionate, and so knowledgeable. Jonathan was quick on his feet and in his mind, calm and cool no matter if it was a terrible trauma or a well child check. He treated every patient with the same respect and care. I could always depend on having some good laughs during down moments when working with him. His love of family, and co-workers was immense. I remember more than once he would bring Crumbl Cookies to us in the evening … on his day off! There he'd be by the Charge Nurse desk with his huge smile and sparkle in his eyes, saying "I heard it was busy. Thought you guys might need these."

Information about the accident that took Wright's life was not available.

A memorial service was held Thursday at the Hanley building of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Coeur d'Alene.