William Wesley Wertz, known by all as “Wes” passed away on June 17, 2026 in Kettering, Ohio, at the age of 73. He was born on February 24, 1953 to Kay and Faye (Vore) Wertz. Wes was a lifelong resident of West Milton, Ohio.

Wes graduated from Milton-Union High School in 1971. He went on to help continue his family’s legacy by working at Wertz Variety Store and later owning Wertz Hardware in “Beautiful Downtown West Milton.”

On July 11, 1981, he married his wife, Lisa (Holtvoigt) Wertz with whom he shared a life for over 44 years. Together they raised two children: his daughter Lauren Wertz and son, Eric Wertz (Emily Courtright). Wes was the proud grandfather of Evangeline and Ezra Wertz. He also leaves behind his brother Wayne (Sharon Earls) Wertz, and his sisters Georgia (Gary) Woolery, Susan (Bob) Snead, and PJ Wertz (Bruce Loper).

Born with the gift of gab, Wes never knew a stranger. Wes saw himself as a professional helper and believed strongly in helping those around him achieve their dreams. Over the years, he helped friends with drag racing and sprint cars, hot air ballooning and was a “roadie” for local musicians. Above all, Wes cherished his family.

A Celebration of Wes’s Life will be held on June 29, 2026 at River Valley Church, 2261 S. Miami St, West Milton. Visitation will be from 3-7 PM with the service beginning at 7:00 PM. Arrangements are in care of Hale-Sarver Family Funeral Home, West Milton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Siteman Cancer Center & WashU Medicine, MSC 1082-414-2555, 7425 Forsyth Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63105 or online at siteman.wustl.edu/tribute in memory of Wes Wertz. Another option is Salvation Army Tipp City Unit, 1221 W. Main St, Tipp City, Oh 45371 in memory of Wes Wertz. These contributions could help others in their fight against cancer and help local families- things Wes valued.

May the memory of Wes bring comfort to those who knew him and inspire them to live with the same candor, curiosity, and selflessness he embodied.