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Gary Wortz Obituary
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Gary served his country in the US Air Force during Vietnam followed by his service in the National Guard in Battle Creek. He received his Doctorate Degree from Michigan State University and practiced medicine in Battle Creek for over 30 years. He also established medical education programs at Western Michigan University, as well as establishing community care organizations like Centracare. Gary loves the Lord and dedicated his life to Him. He was active at the Journey Church.
Gary is survived by his Wife of 45 years, Sharon Kay (Mercer) Wortz; his sons Jeremy (Renae) Wortz and Joshua (Amber) Wortz; Grandchildren, Brayden, Ava, Elliott, and Matilda; Brothers, Brothers, Dennis (Denise) Wortz, Dale (Jan) Wortz, Dr. Terry (Renee) Wortz, and Jeffrey Wortz.
Gary enjoyed gaming, traveling, teaching and studying the Bible. He was passionate about helping others and volunteered at the Lakeview Neighborhood Food Ministry. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren
Visitation will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 375 West Dickman Road, on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
A celebration of Gary's life will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at 11:00 am with Pastor Steven Amaro of Journey Church officiating.
Interment will take place in the Fort Custer National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the South Michigan Food Bank, smfoodbank.org/get-involved/fund-food-drives.
Arrangements by the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service. 269-788-9800 www.baxterfuneral.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Lawrence Robert Bellmore Jr (Bob)
May 6, 2025
To The Family of Gary Wortz - I am a cousin of Gary and your family. I related through my mother Vaneta O. (Wortz) Bellmore, a sister of your grand father . I am located in PA and born and raised in Flint MI. Our childhood home was across the street from Jacob & Reva Wortz (grand parents on my mother's side - your grand parents on your father's side). I am located in Williamsport PA 17701. My cell is 570-337-7501 for future contact if you choose.
Paula Peterson
September 5, 2024
Gary always had a smile and a laugh to share. He always wanted to know more about how others were. Always ready to serve somewhere.
Very saddened to hear of his passing. Praying for you Sharon, Jeremy, and Josh and families.
Amy Dittenber
September 4, 2024
I am so saddened to hear this. Dr. Gary was a wonderful person. I worked for him many years ago and he was always positive and a joy to work with. Condolences to Sharon and the family.
Kris Hirzel
August 30, 2024
I am an occupational therapist - worked with Dr. Wortz (as I called him) at the senior diagnostic center and at PACE. He was always listening - talking - laughing - just an all around easy to approach doctor. He was always interested in what other people thought - always wanted to know everyone's opinion. Well - he became interested in some of the adaptive tools that therapists use to compensate for daily tasks. YEARS later - after he left PACE, I received a voicemail from him asking for information about "that thing that helps people wipe their butts" stated that he had a patient who could really use it. Made me both laugh and smile! He was something special - the man never washed his coffee cup! We did remind him of that one!
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Tamara Costanzo
August 29, 2024
Sending many prayers to you. I was fortunate to share an office next to Dr. Wortz for a while at Wmed and loved his blasting music and his cheerful disposition. He made me change the way I thought of the aging process and for that, I will be forever thankful.
Muhammad Rafi
August 29, 2024
My condolences on Gary passing. He was very knowledgeable and compassionate physician. He was kind to all.I will miss him.
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