John Wentz

Lyle “John” Wentz, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on April 27, 1944, John lived a full life marked by hard work, unwavering love for his family, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

John grew up in Luana, Iowa, alongside his two brothers and sister. It was there, surrounded by wide open fields and the values of small-town life, that he developed the deep sense of integrity, kindness, and responsibility that defined him throughout his life. He was predeceased by his parents, Ilo (Scheffert) and Lawrence Wentz, and his older brother, Lamoine (Bonnie), of Monona, IA.

John began his professional career at GTE Florida, where he dedicated many years to the phone industry. He was known by colleagues and friends alike for his reliability, strong work ethic, and calm, steady demeanor. After 30 years, he retired from his first career and embraced a new challenge in real estate.

John’s character was defined by kindness, humility, and quiet strength. He lived his life with integrity, treating everyone with respect and sincerity. He was the kind of man who led not with loud words, but by example. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, his love and loyalty were constants you could always count on. He taught us to be patient, to show up without fail, to always do the right thing, and to find humor even when life got a little messy.

Outside of work, John was happiest with a fishing rod in hand or manning his grill. An avid fisherman, he cherished time spent on the water, always returning with a big catch—or at least a good story about one. He was also a master griller, taking great pride in hosting family dinners and backyard BBQs, where no detail was ever overlooked.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Robin (Lunergan), and his four children: James (Amy) Wentz, Steven (Ann) Wentz, Jonathan (Daniela) Clark, and Lauren (Timothy) Eggert. He was a proud and loving grandfather to seven grandchildren: Jill Wentz, Rachel (Ben) Fiore, Matthew Wentz, Ryan Wentz, Alexa Clark, Nicole Clark, and Grayson John Eggert. He is also survived by his brother, Ronald (Lorna) Wentz of Menomonee Falls, WI, and his sister, Sharron (Douglas) Wubbels of Reston, VA.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on April 3rd at Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center, 4310 Solutions Lane, Bradenton, FL 34211. Visitation from 1–3 p.m., service at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to Manatee Children’s Services or Parenting Matters.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.