Robert A. Wertz, "Bob"

Wertz – Robert A., “Bob”, 80, Richland, went to be with the Lord on November 5, 2023. Born on April 27, 1943 in Windber, son of Wilbur B. and Grace V. (Saylor) Wertz. Preceded in death by his parents, and brother-in-law, Steve Bean. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Shirley E. (Bean) Wertz; children, Chad (CharLynn) Wertz, Pittsburgh, and Tara (Michael) Wolf, Richland; grandchildren, Jordan Wolf and her fiancé, Brady Thomas, and Benjamin Wolf, all of Richland, Claudia, Lillie, Brayden, and Cooper Wertz, all of Pittsburgh; sisters- in-law, Margie (Doug) Ways, Bunker Hill, WV, and Kathy (Dave) Porter, Scottdale, PA; brothers-in-law, Larry Bean, Gerrardstown, WV, and Mike Bean, Inwood, WV, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Bob was a 1961 graduate of Richland High School. After graduating from Richland, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education in 1965 from Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV. Bob furthered his education with a Master’s Degree and Principal Certificate from WV University. While attending college he met the love of his life, Shirley. They were married in 1966 and moved back to Johnstown where he would start a dedicated 30-year career with the Richland School District. He served many years as Principal of the Rachel Hill Elementary School and then Richland Middle School until his retirement in 1995. Bob was an avid bowler and he shared his passion by organizing a bowling league for students during the 1970’s and 80’s. Each Saturday morning, he could be found at Richland Lanes helping kids to learn how to bowl and compete on teams with their friends. Many graduates of Richland shared fond memories of their experiences with the bowling league when they ran into him over the years. Bob enjoyed an active life after retirement by playing golf and traveling with Shirley to many beach destinations. He was a big sports fan and closely followed all Richland and Pittsburgh teams. He especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren play baseball, softball, soccer, hockey, basketball and musical performances. He was a very loving “Pap” and proudly attended their events at every opportunity. He loved spending time with his family and grandchildren at “The Cottage” at Indian Lake. Friends will be received from 1 p.m. until time of Memorial Service at 5 p.m. on Friday, November 10th, at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, with Pastor Doug Black officiating. Private inurnment will be at Richland Cemetery. The family suggests contributions be directed to either Arbutus Park Manor, 207 Ottawa Street, Johnstown, PA 15904; or the Parkinson’s Foundation, parkinson.org in memory of Bob Wertz. Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com. Cremation by Laurel Highlands Crematory at Harris Funeral Home.