Obituary

Phillip Eugene Wertz, age 87, of Grinnell, passed away on September 26, 2025, at UnityPoint- Grinnell Regional Medical Center.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 AM, Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell with burial at Hazelwood cemetery. A luncheon will be held at the Grinnell Eagles following the burial. Family will greet friends at a visitation held prior to the service beginning at 9:00 AM, Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

Phil was born on May 9, 1938, in Gilman, Iowa, to Elmer and Bertha Mitchell. After his parents’ divorce, Phil was lovingly raised through his teen years by his father and stepmother, Esther Wertz.

On November 12, 1960, Phil was united in marriage to Judy Sumpter at the Friends Church in Grinnell. Together they were blessed with one daughter, Kimberly Ann.

Phil dedicated 27 years of his life working as a custodian at Grinnell-Newburg Schools, retiring in 2011. He was known for his strong work ethic and his motto: “Do it right the first time.” Phil made a lasting impact on the school community through his dedication, kindness, and quiet leadership.

A passionate sports enthusiast, Phil enjoyed playing softball and bowling, and was an avid fan of many sports. A loyal fan of the Grinnell Tigers, he especially loved watching his grandson, Dalton, compete in school sports. Phil also enjoyed simple pleasures, including watching game shows and completing word searches.

Phil is survived by his daughter, Kim Lender of Grinnell; his grandson, Dalton (Danielle) Lender of Grinnell; great-grandchildren, Falen Torres and Warren Lender; sister-in-law, Vicky Langford of Brooklyn, IA; and brother-in-law, Ron Sumpter of Chicago, Il. He was preceded in death by his mother, Bertha; his father, Elmer; stepmother, Esther; his beloved wife, Judy Wertz; his son-in-law, Don Lender; brother-in-law and wife, Donald and Mary Sumpter; and sister-in-law, Donna Nevitt.

If desired, memorial contributions may be designated to Phil’s daughter Kim Lender for future benefit to the Grinnell Newburg School District. Memorials may be mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.

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