Wayne W. Wertz

Wayne W. Wertz, lifelong resident of West Milton, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. A 1972 graduate of Milton-Union Schools and Future Farmers of America (FFA) program, Wayne was first and foremost proud to be a farmer. Wayne was a visible part of the Miami County landscape for over 50 years of successful farming. His love of farming and respect for agriculture led him to be a first adopter of no till farming in the area as a conservationist and environmentalist. In addition to farming, Wayne always worked full time - at Waste Management, Danis Corporation, various construction employs then retired from the State of Ohio (ODOT) with 27 years’ service - but he NEVER retired from farming. Preceded in death by parents, Kay and Faye (Vore) Wertz and most recently, his beloved older brother, Wes. Survived by sisters, Georgia (Gary) Woolery, Susan (Bob) Snead, P.J. (Bruce) Loper, sister-in-law, Lisa, Aunt Zoe Hittner, many beloved nieces, nephews, beloved cousins, his loving wife, Sharon, of 37 years and his kitty, BC. A regular stand-up guy with a big heart and a wicked sense of humor, intending to make you laugh. He helped a lot of people anonymously never seeking the limelight or recognition as he truly enjoyed people. Wayne had traveled to all but 7 US States and several countries overseas, but mostly looked forward to vacationing in the Florida Keys, Valentine’s Day with Sharon. He enjoyed watercolor painting, attending concerts at Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra (DPO) for over 30 years, music at Arbogast Performing Arts Center (APAC), events at Troy Hayner, and entertainment at the Darke County Center for the Arts (DCCA), especially if followed by a steaming plate of homemade spaghetti. Wayne was a member of the Teamsters Union, Farm Bureau, Farmer’s Union and Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), Richard Montgomery Chapter. Wayne enjoyed hard work and often said “I never made a dime with a fishing pole or a golf club…” Wayne wants to thank everyone who helped and supported him in realizing his farming dreams and aspirations. A special thanks to Uncle Bob and Aunt Zoe who were always a source of great support.
Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Tuesday, August 18, at Highland Brethren in Christ Church, 7210 S Jay Rd, West Milton. Pastor Harvey Bowman will officiate with interment following at Riverside Cemetery, West Milton.  The family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 PM Monday at Hale-Sarver Family Funeral Home, 284 N. Miami Street, West Milton. Reverend Harvey Bowman officiating. Donations can be made to Ohio's Hospice of Miami County in Wayne’s name. Memories may be left for the family at www.hale-sarver.com

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