John Wentz

John R. Wentz, 84, of Fargo, ND, passed away Sunday, January 3, 2010, in Evergreens of Fargo. He was born to parents Jacob and Mary (Russell) Wentz November 22, 1925, in Woodrow, Saskatchewan, Canada. In 1935, the family moved to Enderlin, North Dakota. In 1938, they lived in Lisbon, North Dakota, returning to Enderlin in 1941, where John graduated from high school. He went to Jamestown College for a short time before enlisting in the Merchant Marines. He served as a Communications Officer during World War II in the Pacific on the USS Otis Skinner. This ship was hit by a kamikaze which caused a fire they battled for two days. Following service, John and his father were partners in the hardware and appliance business in Enderlin. In the fall of 1953, he was licensed with Western States Life and spent the rest of his life in the life and personal insurance business. In 1953, he married Maxine Miller in Ada, Minnesota. One son, Jon Bari, was born of this union. In 1958, he married Marilyn Larson in Fargo, North Dakota, where they made their home the rest of his life. John was a charter member of the Fargo Optimist Club. He served as membership chair of Optimist International of the Dakotas, Minnesota and Manitoba District. Later, he served as local club President and was distinguished Lt. Gov. of Dakota District. He was an optimistic person his whole life in spite of physical challenges. He was always willing to help friends through bumpy roads. He enjoyed his family, close friends, horses, cats, dogs, cars and games. He was dedicated to his family and clients. We are very appreciative of the caregivers at Evergreen Assisted Living of Fargo. He leaves behind his wife, Marilyn; sons, Jon Bari (Bonnie) McLain, Aurora, CO; Kelly Wentz, Fargo, ND; Larry (Jody) Wentz, West Fargo, ND; three grandchildren and eight great grandchildren all of Colorado; his sisters-in-law, Laura Warnsholz, Austin, MN; and Lil Newman, Fort Frances, Ontario. Memorials are preferred to the Shriners Children’s Hospital or First United Methodist Church. Memorial Service: Thursday, January 7, 2010, at 2:00 PM, at First United Methodist Church, 906 1st Ave. S., Fargo, ND.