Gary R. Wentzel

Gary R Wentzel, 76, of Kewanna, Indiana, passed away at 8:08 p.m. on Monday, October 7, 2024, at South Bend Memorial Hospital.

Born September 8, 1948, in Chicago, Il. Gary was the oldest son of the late Robert and Doris (Flaherty) Wentzel. A graduate of Aubbeenaubbee High School, Class of 1966. He often regaled friends, and family with stories from his youth that left everyone laughing at his “adventurous spirit”.

Gary honorably served in the US Army and on June 27, 1971, he married the love of his life Janice Smitley.

Known for his ornery personality and joyful nature, Gary had a unique charm that was evident in his “special wave” to friends and family. Early in their marriage, he pursued a passion for professional Drag Racing; after many years of adrenaline-fueled thrill-seeking he retired from the track. His love for riding motorcycles and his expertise as a machinist were also integral parts of his life.

Gary’s work ethic and machinist talent were developed on the family farm, where he learned valuable lessons from his father. He became the owner and operator of Wentzel’s Body Shop, getting a reputation for meticulous perfection. He later opened Wentzel's Auto Repair, continuing his commitment to precision before transitioning to Gaerte Engines and ultimately retiring from Winamac Coil Spring in 2014.

He was also a proud Lifetime Member of the Kewanna VFW post 1121.

Gary’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Janice Wentzel; daughters: Angela Plummer of Kewanna, and Amanda Heckaman (Adam) of Bourbon; 6 grandsons: Jerry, Gary, and Blake Plummer, and Tyler, Jaydon, and Brady Heckaman; and brothers: Alan Wentzel (Bea) and Jim Wentzel (Linda).

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sister, Lori. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 14, 2024, at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Metzger, Chapel, located at 123 East Main St., Kewanna, Indiana. 

Visitation will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at the funeral home.

Gary will be laid to rest at the Bruce Lake Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers the family request that memorial contributions may be made to the Kewanna VFW Post 1121.

Gary’s online guestbook is available, and condolence can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com