Darrell Glenn Wertz
Darrell “Darry” Glenn Wertz, 87, of Charlotte, a natural-born people person and story teller, died on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 in Charlotte. Darry was born February 8, 1937, the son of Duane and Martha (Welch) Wertz. He graduated from Charlotte High School before honorably serving in the U.S. Navy. Upon his return, he worked briefly at Oldsmobile before launching a lifelong adventure as an entrepreneur. Throughout the years, Darry owned local businesses including DJ’s Party Store in Charlotte, the D&D Village Bar in Bellevue and the Roadrunner Bar in Vermontville. He worked over 60 years in the family business, D.E. Wertz John Deere in Charlotte and Devereaux, MI.
Many will remember Darry for his need for speed. He was a State Champion snowmobile racer in the 1970s, and an avid motorcycle racer. He travelled the state with his turbocharged motorcycle, putting to shame other racing bikes and breaking a few bones in the process. In later years, he enjoyed time up North at the family cabin in Crystal Valley with his son, Van, where they enjoyed countless Jeep rides through the sand dunes. He was a lifetime member of the Eagles Club, and a friend to many.
Darry is survived by his wife of 42 years, Dolores “Dee” Wertz; son, Van (Mary) Wertz; daughter-in-law, Julie Wertz; four grandchildren, Trevor (Tracey) Wertz, Zane (Lynn) Wertz, Spencer (Sarah) Wertz, and Dalton Wertz; four great-grandchildren, Jaelan Wertz, Brody Wertz, Silas Wertz, and Hazen Wertz; sister, Angie Earl; sister-in-law, Linda Wertz; and several nieces and nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by his sons, Shane Wertz and Wade Wertz; grandson, Kory Wertz; stepsons, Ronald and Richard Bartlett; siblings, Donny Wertz, Dennis Wertz, and Marcia Dewey; and brother-in-law, Fred Earl.
Friends are encouraged to support Darry’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A memorial gathering will be held at noon on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Darry’s Party Barn. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Eaton Community Palliative Care. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.