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John Wirtz Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Wirtz
Jamie Bolivar ne Butterfield
December 23, 2023
Mr. Wirtz, you were my greatest joy at Elgin High. Jamie Bolivar, ne Butterfield
Sister Marion Etzel
March 18, 2014
Earlier today I was shocked to learn about the passing of your husband and father, Jack Wirtz. I was Mr. Wirtz's first student teacher at Elgin in Fall of 1969. I soon learned that I was in the presence of an awesome gentleman who introduced me to the best musical literature and the best teaching methods. I had told my teachers at the University of Illinois that they should send me to "the best" and they certainly did! He continued to mentor and teach me for many years even after I went out to begin my own adventure of teaching. He was always ready to listen. I only regret that I did not say goodbye to him and to you his family before abruptly moving to Rome Italy. May he rest in peace and may his influence continue to give memory and energy to all of us. My sympathy.
Sarah Chernick-Buerger
April 18, 2013
I played the flute at OPRFHS and went to Europe with the orchestra. It was a life changing trip and I owe that all to Mr. Wirtz. How many kids can come out of high school saying that they have been to Italy, Austria, Germany, France and Switzerland? We played New World Symphony and Rhapsody in Blue. It was such a privilege to be able to play such wonderful music at the HS level. Now that my kids are getting a bit older, I wonder who in their right mind would take a bunch of teenagers out of the country? Well, Mr. Wirtz would--because he cared about music, and he cared about teaching and he cared about us!
Susan Parks
April 6, 2013
Mr. Wirtz's legacy lives on at OPRF. The Concert Tour Association is now called APPLAUSE! and covers all the performing arts. The citrus sales to benefit students "savings accounts" for tours still exists and there are fall and spring flower sales as well. The band and orchestra toured Vienna and Prague this spring. We are all grateful for his vision and dedication for music and the kids that we still benefit from today.
March 29, 2013
I am very soory to hear of Jack's passing. He was a wonderful musician/educator and influenced numerous young lives. He was also a great guy.
I have fond memories of times with Jack at our SIU summer camps.
My sincere condolences to all of his family.
God Bless.
Mike Hanes, Director of Bands Emeritus
SIUC.
Wayne and Patsy HillerPatsyH
March 28, 2013
Please accept our sincere sympathy Catherine and family...and also JoAnn.
Peter Bell
March 26, 2013
Mr. Wirtz met me when I was a freshman at OPRF. He said in a teacher-parent-student conference that I was too serious. I think that he wanted me to have more fun with music. Well I did. In 1977 and 1979 we travelled to Europe and these were life-changing tours for me. Thank you Jack
Mark Guarino
March 25, 2013
An influence on my life as my tenure in the OPRF orchestra was the foundation of my time there, and the lessons I learned, and the experience gleaned, all can be traced back to Mr. Wirtz. I'm deeply saddened to learn of his passing, but his life does affirm how a single person can greatly affect so many others in such a profound way. With deep sympathy to his family.
Jenny Van Pelt-Montgomery
March 24, 2013
I was deeply saddened to read of the passing of Mr. Wirtz. He was the finest teacher and a kind patient soul. I learned of his passing on the evening of my son's concert during which he played a beautiful solo. As I listened, I thanked him for his gift which I have passed on to my own children. With deepest sympathy.
Karen Brown Berg
March 24, 2013
Mr. Wirtz was my orchestra leader at OPRF. I remember the twinkle in his eye and his love for excellent music. He always tried to encourage me to spend more time with my violin. I went to a summer music camp and an European tour with him. I am so sorry to read of his passing. I cherish my high school orchestra memories and send my prayers to his family. Sincerest sympathy.
March 23, 2013
Mr. Wirtz met me when I was a freshman at OPRF. He said in a teacher-parent-student conference that I was too serious. I think that he wanted me to have more fun with music. Well I did. In 1977 and 1979 we travelled to Europe and these were life-changing tours for me. Thank you Jack
March 23, 2013
Mr. Wirtz was my orchestra director from 1975 to 1979. He was my shepherd in our European tours of 1977 and 1979. He is the reason that I still play Viola and have shared the gifts of music with my children.
Lynn Schultz Slater
March 20, 2013
Sending hugs to the beautiful family of a marvelous man that touched so many with his inspiration, kindness, and a twinkle in his eye. I have such wonderful memories of Mr. Wirtz and will cherish them always. He will be missed. Sincere sympathy.
March 20, 2013
I so appreciated Mr. Wirtz for his excellent musical ability with the Symphony Orchestra. I was also impressed with his bravery for taking such a large group of kids and a ton of equipment and instruments to so many wonderful places in Europe. His legacy should never be forgotten.
Marian C. Tetzlaff (River Forest, IL)
Sandy Bernat Ridolfi
March 19, 2013
My most cherished memories of OPRF are of playing in symphony orchestra and going on the European Concert Tours. Mr. Wirtz gave me the best gift any student can receive; the life long love of music. Music enhances our lives, connects us to each other and to the Divine, expresses our unspoken longings, joys and sorrows. There are some pieces, most notably Dvorak's New World Symphony, that will always hold a special place in my heart; a gift from this wonderful teacher. He touched not only my life, but the lives of my children, because this gift gets passed on and on.
Much love and sympathy to the Wirtz family, who were our family too! May God hold you all gently in loving arms during this difficult time.
Robert Kolb
March 19, 2013
I was a member of the stage crew, I remember long rehearsal, just to make our 3 musicals a year perfect! Thanks Mr Wirtz. My prayers to the family, What a great man, who touched 1000's of lives in the best way
Bob Kolb
Barbara Wunder
March 19, 2013
I remember that he had the faith in us to attempt to play an entire Sibelius symphony one year in symphony orchestra at OPRF. I still have the cassette recording my brother made. We will always love and remember our wonderful Mr. Wirtz.
Jennifer Keiper
March 18, 2013
Mr. Wirtz hated (and I don't use that word often) my violin but I had no money, it was passed down through the family, and I didn't play well enough to warrant a better instrument. I could never seem to make it past string choir. It wasn't until senior year that the message got through that maybe I should practice more often. One day while in a practice room, I saw Mr. Wirtz walk by a few times. I didn't give it much thought until he opened the door and said, "If you played like that last year - I would have put you in Symphony orchestra." I told him I was still playing the old violin that he didn't like. He just smiled and walked away. From Mr. Wirtz, I learned that the instrument doesn't matter, it is the effort and love that you put into it that makes it radiate warmth and joy.
Through the years I've learned that doesn't only apply to a piece of wood with strings and a bridge. Mr. Wirtz's lessons live on through the thousands of students fortunate enough to study under him. My condolences to the family.
Kathy McNamara Lonergan
March 18, 2013
It was the summer of 1981, and I was just wrapping up the day's rehearsal for the OPRFHS production of "The Sound of Music". As I was about to leave, Mr. Wirtz asked to speak with me. He cut to the chase: the symphony orchestra needed a bassist and asked if I would consider it. I said, "Well- there's only one problem; I don't play the bass!" He laughed and told me he knew this, but considering my strong piano background, he thought I would be able to learn it relatively easily. Of course I had a million questions, but he had an answer for every one. He would give me daily lessons over the summer, at no cost, after rehearsal for the play had ended. When I got to a certain point that was beyond his capability, he would refer me to a teacher, and while those lessons would come at my own expense, the school would provide me with a bass to keep at home to use for practice- free of charge. It was a deal. After a summer of "power lessons", I enrolled in String Choir for my sophomore year. Though I was last chair, I made it into Symphony Orchestra my junior year, which provided me the opportunity to be a part of the school's European concert tour. I spent my spring break lugging that (damn) bass through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, France, and Monaco, playing in all types of venues amidst breathtaking scenery and historic sites. It was an amazing experience, one I'll never forget. While senior year kept us stateside, there were many more wonderful memories and music made together. Mr. Wirtz passed away last week, and while I wasn't able to attend his out-of-town funeral, it doesn't mean I wasn't thinking of him today. Mr.Wirtz, thanks for everything you taught me and for the faith you had in my musical ability. I'm sorry I used to blow off Friday morning sectionals because I had choir at the same time. I'm sure you understood, even if you weren't happy about it. I will forever hear you saying, "A one-ee and a two-ee and a...." as you counted us in, and I will always think of you when I listen to Symphony From the New World. RIP Maestro. ?
Randall Bullen
March 18, 2013
Dear Katie and Family,
Randall and I send all our love, prayers and deepest sympathies to you and your family. Jack was a great teacher and friend and he will truly be missed.
Randall and Jane Bullen
Donald and Linda Shinsako and Family
March 17, 2013
We send our love and prayers for your family. John was a wonderful, funny, caring man and will be truly missed.
Lynn Huber Jablonski
March 17, 2013
From 4th grade boiler room lesson at McKinley Grade School through Elgin High School Orchestra you led, taught and were an inspiration to a bunch of wiggly little trouble making kids. I wish you knew the tally of how many ended up majoring in music, playing professionally or for enjoyment to this day. I wish we could somehow make a card and sign it with all our names, listed together --- it would be a POWERFUL thing!!!
March 17, 2013
Jack Wirtz had an amazing impact on my life and my profession. I had the privilege of student teaching at OPRFHS in 1979 with Mr. Wirtz as my mentor. His influence on me as a musician, educator, conductor and as a person was huge and I have thought of him often over my career. For the past 33 years I have been a high school orchestra director and fine art supervisor and have taken more than 10 trips abroad with my school orchestras. Sound familiar! THANKS Mr. Wirtz, for showing me the way and for the recommendation that landed my first job 33 years ago.
March 17, 2013
My prayers are with the Wirtz family as I also mourn the loss of Jack. His love for music and his hard work helped to strengthen not only my musical talents, but also my character. May you find comfort and peace.
Lisa J.(Tetzlaff)Pfiffner - Marengo, IL - OPRF Symphony Orchestra 1973-1977
carla mowery
March 16, 2013
To a wonderful, great man who conducted the Elgin High Orchestra. He inspired us so much! I know he will be conducting an orchestra of angels now...
Jon Fujiu
March 16, 2013
I have great memories playing in the orchestra at OPRF while Mr. Wirtz put up with my silly antics from the percussion section. I was fortunate to go on both Europe trips In fact, I was not planning on going my Senior year until Mr. Wirtz helped get me some fundraising fruit orders. Such a generous gesture that I will never forget. As an adult I was also honored to be a groomsman in Cary and Mary's wedding and years later played in "Mr. Wirtz' Opus". During the reunion rehearsals, Mr. Wirtz told some stories of his past conducting experiences which helped us all get to know him better. My prayers go out to the entire family.
Jenny (Sievert) Adams
March 16, 2013
Prayers for peace and comfort to the Wirtz family. I loved playing in orchestra with Mr. Wirtz (1973-1977). His enthusiasm was contagious and he helped me develop a lifelong love of classical music.
Robert Regan
March 16, 2013
Even though I was only in orchestra in my freshman year (only band after that), I STILL remember him after all of these years. His passion for music was obvious to me from day one. I will never forget him.
Marge Ebel
March 16, 2013
Dear Katie,
So sorry to hear of Jack's passing.
Hope that he and Bob might catch up
with each other along the way and have a chuckle or two.
I have fond remembrances of our Oak Park High School trips so well planned by Jack.
Nancy Greco
March 16, 2013
Just wanted to add a note--I was traveling in Europe and ran into Jeff and his family outside the Duomo. I couldn't believe that I recognized his daughter Kristin and asked the family what they were doing in Milan. Jeff said, "I'm following in my father's footsteps--the band I direct is on tour." Life and music goes on, as do the memories.
Al Wittenberg
March 16, 2013
to the wirtz family... mr wirtz was a lifelong positive influence on me and a great example of how teachers can help youngsters become adults... it was an amazing 4 years in the orchestras at oprf and mr wirtz was a major part of that... it floors some of my friends here in sturgeon bay when i tell them my high school orchestra toured europe and cut an album in high school... may God comfort all of mr wirtz's friends and family in this time and always
Nancy Greco
March 16, 2013
Many fond memories of Mr. Wirtz conducting the musicals from the pit at OPRF. The first time was in "Funny Girl" and the last, "Oklahoma." I went on to teach music and am now a professional actress and singer. What I learned from Mr. Wirtz and others in the fine arts department have stayed with me for life and I will always be grateful.
Dee Dee Kinzie Tedeschi
March 16, 2013
Mr.Wirtz was one of my favorite teachers. I still use some of his quotes on my own children today. He made the music department feel like home. I had no idea at the time what a positive impact he had on my life. What a sweet encouraging man who could bring the best out of anybody . I thank him for his dedication and know that he is in a beautiful place surrounded by music.
Brooke Townsend LaMonica
March 16, 2013
I will always remember Mr. Wirtz as a happy, kind person. He was a very influential person to me. I have shared his stories with my colleagues and children. My music has continued on through my life and I have always kept him in my thoughts.
Norma Dutter
March 15, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of the death of Mr. Wirtz. Both of our daughters had the privilege of playing in his orchestra at OPRF. He brought out "those things that are best" in his young musicians. Thank you for sharing the gift of music.
Sue Domeier
March 15, 2013
I was fortunate to play in the orchestra for Mr. Wirtz. What an adventure it was! I still play and have become a teacher. Thank you Mr. Wirtz for the wonderful example you set for me and so many others. Thanking God for the blessing of you!
March 15, 2013
Katie,
I was so sorry to hear about Jack. Both of you left a mark at OPRFHS. Jack was one of those rare and gifted educational leaders who always focused on making others look good. His humble demeanor and contagious smile was a reminder about what real leadership is all about.
Marge Zuba
Ada Willer
March 15, 2013
A gifted, talented man who brought the gift of music to so many students, which in turn provided some wonderful concerts at OPRFHS. Prayers to family and friends ... he leaves a lasting legacy.
Patty Stout-Whalen
March 15, 2013
Dear Jeff and Wirtz family, I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Patty Stout-Whalen
Elaine Haughan
March 15, 2013
Mr. Wirtz was a great man who will be greatly missed. Anyone who can turn a room full of Freshman with various skill levels coming from different schools into a harmonious orchestra has great talent and patience. He was a big reason I stayed in the music program for all 4 years & was lucky to enjoy a trip to Europe.
Rest in peace, Mr. Wirtz, you will be missed.
Anita Fuller
March 15, 2013
Jack and Katie are among our dearest friends. We'll never forget all the good times we've had together, and there were MANY. We will forever be grateful to Jack for recognizing Bob's talent as a teacher, and inviting him into the music faculty at OPRF High School. Wish we could get together ONE MORE time, Jack. Love you and Katie.
Mr. Wirtz, last day of school June 1987
Chris Hayevsky
March 15, 2013
Deborah LeGare
March 14, 2013
I played in the orchestra at OPRF with Mr. Wirtz, and now I am a music teacher myself. He offered us rich musical and cultural experiences. We had no idea how lucky we were to have such a dedicated music educator as our director. My prayers are with the family.
Paul Wagner
March 14, 2013
Mr. Wirtz was the reason I became a music educator. Because of his inspiration, I'm at my best and most at home in front of a performing ensemble making music.
Richard Garrin (Pekala)
March 14, 2013
Jack was the one who hired me at OPRFHS - - and supported everything we did as our department chair. I loved his laugh, his sense of humor, and his ability to run the music department with very few meetings [I hated faculty meetings] and he always used personal engagement whenever possible. He was as dedicated as any teacher and musician I have ever met. I remember one day, we found that there were several practice room pianos which were bashed and mutilated in the music practice area pretty badly . . . Jack was DEVASTATED as if it were his own 'home' and could not believe that anyone at all would 'do this to us' and our department. He held his job/career/OPRFHS close to his heart and loved everyone's successes and was saddened by setbacks. He was like a proud 'papa' of all of his staff and students . . . and he was never "orchestra outdoing the choirs" or "orchestra outdoing bands" etc like some departments filled with jealousy and back-stabbing. Everyone's accomplishments were lifted up and they were 'the family's' accomplishments. It was where I learned supreme department support and cooperation for each other and all the ensembles. This was the sign of an excellent leader. Well done, good and faithful servant, well done! Your light will live on in the music you created and all you gave to your students and staff will long be remembered. Amen. Richard Garrin (Pekala)
Loma Brown
March 14, 2013
Dean and I loved Jack so much. He enriched our lives as did Katie. We will miss him so much.
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