John James Wertz, a 55-year-old man from Altoona, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday. Born in Altoona, he was the son of the late William B. Sr. and Judy Jean Wertz. Surviving family members include a daughter, Amber “Nikki” Williams, and her husband; two sons, Justin James Wertz and his wife Hatty; five grandchildren; and four siblings.
John retired as a sergeant from the State Correctional Institution in Chester in 2015. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, riding his motorcycle, and playing bingo with his daughter. He was also a Steelers fan and cherished spending time with his grandchildren, who loved playing games, going on adventures, and playing Pokemon Go around town. One of John’s greatest joys was cooking meals for his family during holidays.
A Celebration of Life service will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday at Bellwood Fire Hall in Bellwood. Arrangements are by Mauk & Yates Funeral Home Inc., Altoona. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s honor to a veteran’s charity of choice.