Lawrence Antone “Tony” Wertz of Lincoln, Montana and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico died in an automobile accident August 22, 2012 at the age of 69. Tony was welcomed into the world at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula, Montana on January 14, 1943 to parents Sherman and Flora (Horsky) Wertz and older brother, John. He spent his childhood and adolescence at 131 Beverly Street, attended Paxson Grade School and was a regular part of the “Bonner Park Gang.” His friendships with Bruce Madsen, Buddy Zimmerman, Denny Cronin, and many others lasted a lifetime. Throughout his life, Tony took innumerable trips to the family cabin in Lincoln where he rode, fished, worked on the neighboring Grosfield Ranch and participated in pack trips guided by the Hoeffners of the K Lazy Three.
Upon graduation from Missoula County High School, Tony enrolled at the University of Montana where he studied business and participated in Air Force ROTC. He also began his 50 year relationship with the Montana Beta chapter of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Once again, he made many lifelong friends and began a desire to make The University of Montana a premier institution of higher learning.
Tony graduated from The University of Montana in 1965 and enlisted in the Air Force. He was stationed at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and commanded missile sites in the Southwest, but told the most tales about his time in Goose Bay Labrador as a “SAC Trained Killer”. He retired with the rank of Captain.
In 1999, after a long courtship and much encouragement from his parents and children, he married Grace Trujillo Daniel in a small ceremony by the creek on the Lincoln property. They lived in El Macero, CA and raised their new children, Beagle puppies Molly and Chester, until they sold the home and then divided their time between Lincoln and their home in Puerto Vallarta. Tony considered himself the harbormaster of Puerto Vallarta; watching through his binoculars from his home in the hills overlooking Banderas Bay as all of the cruise ships arrived into port. He and Grace generously offered a vacation at the Mexico house for auction to benefit the new Parker Medical Clinic in Lincoln.
While Tony humbly did not consider himself to be a philanthropist, he always gave generously and worked tirelessly for causes that he believed in. He and Grace often bought many pieces of art from the Blackfoot Valley Art Auction to benefit the Parker Medical Clinic. When the Montana Beta chapter of SAE was in danger of being shut down he went to work with his fraternity brothers to revive the chapter by raising money and renovating the house as well as holding reunions and retreats at the cabin in Lincoln. The University of Montana was always dear to his heart and Tony had been active as a board member for the U of M Foundation. He was to be sworn in as Chairman of the Board in September of this year.
Tony’s true love was his family, its history and traditions. He raised three children: John, Elizabeth and Garrett in the San Francisco Bay Area in partnership with his first wife, Janna. Every year he would take the kids to the Horsky-Wertz cabins in Lincoln for two weeks of good Montana fun. Activities included fishing and rafting on the Blackfoot, a crazy mosquito-filled hike to Upper Copper Lake with Paul Grosfield and, of course, huckleberry picking. After the newer of the two cabins on the property was lost to a fire in May of 2003 Tony set to work on his “200 year plan” to make Lincoln a place Wertz descendants would be able to enjoy for the next two centuries. Over the next three years Tony worked alongside his kids and brother John as well as Lonnie Cox, Dan Gilmore and many other local Lincoln residents to turn the cabins into a place for the Wertz family to gather.
And gather they did. The Wertz kids visited Lincoln every summer and most winters for snowmobiling. The Trujillo family began a tradition of a large gathering of family and friends every summer. And every Fourth of July, Tony’s niece, Ingrid, would be there with her family and many friends to celebrate. Tony looked forward to seeing his grandchildren grow up and learn about their family heritage and the Montana way of life. He was incredibly happy in the time preceding his death, having spent the summer hosting and visiting with family and friends and the addition of another grandson to the family.
Every day that he had visitors Tony enforced the rule of cocktail hours and chit-chat in the evening. Even on days when no one else was up to it, Tony could be found on the front porch at 6 o’clock with a smile on his face and a Rochester Special in his hand looking out at what he and the generations before him had created, waiting for someone to join him. Someone inevitably did. It was hard to resist taking part in his joy for life.
Tony is survived by his wife, Grace Wertz; Sons, John Wertz of Redondo Beach, CA and Garrett Wertz of Oakland, CA; Daughter, Elizabeth (Ryan) Wright of Amherst, MA and their children, Avery and Charlie; Stepson, Michael (Brenda) Trujillo of Pasadena, CA and their children Adan and Alexandra; Brother, John C. (Mandy) Wertz of Redmond, WA; Nieces Ingrid Wertz of Seattle, WA and Monica Wertz of Lake Forest, IL. He will be missed by countless more family and friends, as Tony welcomed everyone into his life with open arms, a warm heart and an easy smile.
A memorial service celebrating Tony’s life will be held Monday, October 1st at one o’clock in the afternoon at Tony’s beloved University of Montana in the University Center North Ballroom. A private interment will be held the next day. Memorial contributions may be made to The University of Montana Foundation.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
1:00 P.M.
Monday October 1, 2012
University Center
The University of Montana
Missoula, MT 59812
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
1:00 P.M.
Monday October 1, 2012
University Center
The University of Montana
Missoula, MT 59812
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terry veis says
Our condolences to Tony’s family. Terry and Peggy Veis
robert clark says
deepest sympathy and condolances to the wertz family. bob clark.
Jim O'Day says
To the Wertz Family,
It was with a great deal of sorrow that I learned of the passing of our good friend Tony. Words cannot properly describe this wonderful gentleman and what he meant to so many of us. His memory will remain with us forever. Please accept our condolences, and know our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Leela & Anand Mamidi says
Dear Grace:
Leela and I are deeply shocked at the news of Tony’s sudden departure. We have very fond memories of him, especially when we first moved to Greenview Dr. He made us feel so welcome into the neighborhood. He was so much part of the Greenwood family -we will miss him dearly. May his soul rest in peace.
Please get well soon and hoping to see you back in your spirits. Take care.
Warm regards
Leela & Anand Mamidi
Jon Krutar says
Brother Tony-
My heart aches for all of us that have known & loved you & particularly for the lovely Grace. We so enjoyed our brief time together at the SAE reunion last weekend & were looking forward to spending time with you before you left for the South.You will indeed continue on in heaven as you have on earth;Touching so many lives. RIP my dear friend & prayers Grace for a speedy recovery. Jon & Diane
Barbara Blegen says
Tony went to Paxson Elementary School and attended the Church of the Holy Spirit. We were in the same class and I saw him at High School class reunions. I remember throwing snowballs as children. Tony was always a very sweet person, and everyone I know liked him very much. Condolences to Tony’s family and best wishes for a speedy recovery for Grace. Sincerely, Barbara Blegen
Yvonne Nix Everett says
Our hearts go out to you, your children and grandchildren Tony & Grace. Thank you for taking care of Gracie for all these years – you are the best Tony! Rest in peace Tony. My fondest memory is going to the Republican National Conventions with you and Grace…We will say a prayer for your family and Gracie’s family. Much love, The Everett Family
Susan and Nyle Howsmon says
Our sincere prayers and thoughts are with Tony, Grace and their family. Please let us know how we may be able to help in any way needed. We so enjoyed visiting with Tony when he would come into the BVD office over the years; or catching sight of Tony strolling up and down Main St. in Lincoln, a familiar sight and inspiration to many. His presence will be missed by so many.
Nyle & Susan Howsmon
Jamie Marcum says
You will be truely missed Tony. You were a great man and someone that many look up too. One thing I remember was when people would work on your place and it was lunch time, you would always invite them to come and share lunch and a little conversation with you. Thoughts are with you and your family.
Jamie Marcum
Dick and Maureen Ford says
Tony will be missed by us all. A”True Gentlemen” in every sense of the word. We will miss his smile, his generosity, his love of life, his love of a good time, his love for his SAE Fraternity, his love of his Family and Friends. Rest in peace my good friend, we will see you later.
John Hunter and Darlene Ruiz says
Tony was always bigger than life. He worked hard, played hard, was a devoted family man and loyal friend. He will be missed by many. Our prayers are with him and with Grace and his children. Peace be with you all.
Bill and Brenda McKown says
Tony was a dear friend who we will miss so much… he will always be in our heart forever. Our love and prayers to Grace and all the family.
Gale Daniel and Barbara Soehngen says
It doesn’t seem fair that someone as full of life as Tony should be taken so quickly and that Grace should be injured as she is. Our hearts go out to Michael and all of Tony’s family. Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can help in any way.
Gary V Scales says
Tony was several years older than my crew and I but very well known to us from the Paxson school neighborhood. Popular guy that everyone liked.
Julie Justus McGinity says
Grace – My thoughts and prayers are with you. I have so many happy memories of our Wilson Administration times – all the Christmas parties, political events, and fun dinners at your home. Tony adored you! Such a great guy – always with a smile and helpful word. May he rest in peace. God Bless, Julie
Cecile & Rod Scriban says
Dear Grace, our hearts and prayers are with you for a very speedy recovery !
Please accept our deepest condolences on Tony’s untimely departure. May he enjoy eternal peace in God’s loving care!
We all miss him so much already – the kind, and friendly Tony with the radiant smile that we all fondly remember….
Sincerely,
Cecile and Rod
Gilbert & Linda Khachadourian says
We were so saddened to hear of the terrible accident that took Tony and injured Grace. Tony was so full of life and was a pleasure to know as our neighbor in El Macero. He always had a smile on his face and made us feel so welcome. Every neighborhood get together was brighter when Tony and Grace were there. May God bless Grace and the entire family during these difficult times.
With our deepest sympathies,
Gilbert & Linda Khachadourian
Jim and Lynda Stephenson says
We’ll always remember the evening we spent with Tony and John in Chicago back in 1964 as well as recent SAE reunions. Our thoughts are with you all!
Phiil Shults says
Grace, I am so very sorry for your loss. I know you will miss Tony as many of us do. I didn’t know you well but you were married to a very good friend of mine so I feel a closeness to you.
Tony and were childhood friends, attended Missoula County High School and the University of Montana. We were fraternity brothers and were inducted into Bearpaws, a sophomore men’s honorary together. I was truly shocked when the news reached me. I offer my sincere condolences and love. Phil Shults
Marko and Dana Mlikotin says
Dear Grace — To you and the entire family, you all are in our thoughts and prayers. Tony was a special man who brought so much happiness and smiles to you, and to all those who came to know him. We wish you a speedy recovery and please call upon us if we can be of any assistance to you.
Your friends, always.
Barbara and Gary Marsh says
Our deepest condolences to Grace,John Lizzie and Garrett and the rest of Tony’s family. What a shock to hear about my good pal Champagne Tony Wertz. I nicknamed him Champagne Tony because when we closed a real estate deal, Tony was the first to break out the Champagne. He had such a positive energy and zest for life. I thought of Tony as one of the world’s greatest friends. If Tony was your friend you were very lucky because he truly cared about you and your family. Tony and I loved Tacos Al Pastor especially at El Carboncito in P.V. I will be going to my local taco stand in the next few days to have a couple of Tacos Al Pastor in honor of my good friend and I plan to catch up with Tony along the way and have a few tacos with him. I will miss you Champagne Tony. You were truly “one of a kind”.
Kristine Larson says
Tony, you will be missed! You were so gracious to us with the use of the Lincoln cabin and so gracious to us when we would just show up to see if you were there. Thank you for your generous spirit and uncompromising love. It is a shock that we will never see you again on this Earth. And to Grace, thank you for the lovely chats we had in Lincoln and we wish you a speedy recovery. Please keep in touch.
“Kristi” King Larson, Jeannette Wertz King’s daughter
Cynthia King Pearson says
I cannot imagine how great the depth of this loss of Tony is to his family. What a tradegy. And wishing Grace a speedy and full recovery. My mother, Jeannette Wertz King, was CRAZY about her cousin Tony, all their times together, and his parents Aunt Flora and Uncle Sherman. I have fond memories of this great family too and times together so many long years ago especially when coming to Lincoln, Montana. My oldest son, Macon, fell in love with Lincoln at our first visit in 1999. He was only 4 years old. Tony, Lizabeth and Garrett were gracious to us during that visit and times afterwards when they allowed us to come there as a getaway. My mother loved it, especially while going through her chemo treatments for times of rest and relaxation to enjoy the scenery and peace. I will never forget celebrating our last Thanksgiving together there. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers!
With sympathy and blessing, Cynthia King Pearson (Abilene, TX)
Lonny Cox says
Tony,there is pain in my heart you didn’t get to experience more of the tony’s 200 year plan.
Deb Ray says
Grace, John, Lizzie, Garrett & Michael,
I’m so very sorry to hear the heart breaking news of Tony’s sudden passing and Grace’s injuries. I worked in Tony’s office for 15 years. He adored his family and always made me feel like my family was part of that. He meant a lot to us and I owe him a debt of gratitude for his generous heart over the years.
My biggest take away in knowing Tony is that having a positive attitude is the best way to approach life. Tony had a lot more living to do and it is immensely sad to know his light will no long shine on this earth.
Continued prayers to Grace for her recovery and prayers for peaceful hearts to hers and Tony’s family.
Deb, Rick & Austin Ray, Sacramento, CA
Royce and Mary Engstrom says
Tony has been a true friend to The University of Montana and we will all miss him. He has been an active member of our Foundation and was to have taken over as Chair of the Board of Trustees this Fall. His excitement for that job was clearly evident. We wish Grace a strong and speedy recovery. Mary and I were so appreciative of getting to know Tony and Grace these past few years. Tony was a bright star for UM.
Royce and Mary Engstrom
The University of Montana
Carlos and Juanita Lopez says
Our condolences and deepest prayers to Grace and family.
We pray you will receive more strength, courage and a greater remembrance of that love of a man and his family.
Carlos and Juanita
Mike and Florence Madani says
We were shocked and saddened to hear about Tony’s sudden passing. Tony was a dear friend of ours, as is Grace. Every year we looked forward to seeing them at their home in Puerto Vallerta. They would also join us in our resort there where Tony and Grace sat on the beach and just relaxed for the day. He was a very friendly and hospitable man who enjoyed his life. He will surely be missed, and we pray for Grace to have a complete recovery. Our condolences and prayers go out to Grace and their families! If we can be of any help, please contact us.
With much love,
Mike and Florence Madani
Angie Gallegos says
My name is Angie Gallegos. I am Terri Heraldez and Florece Madani’s sister. I met Tony and Gracie in Puerto Vallarta where we were vacationing with Florence, Mike,
Terri and Bob. They spent the day with us at Linda Mar. Very nice couple. My heart breaks to think of what happen to such a wonderful couple. Our prayers are with the family. God Bless you all.
Bill Beecher says
I had known Tony since the 60’s when we were SAE fraternity brothers. I always liked Tony and thought he was one of the good guys. I really got to know Tony and Grace when Tony came on the foundation board of trustees and appreciated the depth of thoughts and ideas he brought to the table. Durning the last three weeks of his life, I had the pleasure of joining Tony and Grace in a “Lincoln deck chat” , a long lunch at one of the Lincoln’s finest, and joining Tony and the brothers at our Big Fork reunion. I feel fortuate and blessed to have had these moments in my life. Get well Grace and I hope to see you up and around soon.
Bob & Terri Heraldez says
It pains us to think that Tony is no longer with us and that Grace will endure a long recovery. Tony was a very nice, kindhearted and generous person who enjoyed life to its fullest. We will miss seeing him in Puerto Vallarta. Our thoughts and prayers are with Grace and family. Gracie, we are here for you, we love you. Bob & Terri
Alberto y Gabriela Alvarez says
It seems impossible that you are be gone. Our life is so full of your generosity and your deeds will live within us. We met Tony in Puerto Vallarta, my husband built his house, but he took it upon himself to build a friendship. He encouraged us to plan for our children and our future. To be all we could be, always giving people a fair chance. We met the whole family and we feel part of it. We will miss the huckeberries. And the direction! See you soon dear Grace and may Tony rest in peace.
Barry & Sylvia Olsan says
Our deepest condolences to Grace, John, Lizzie and Garrett—you know how much we loved Tony and how terribly we will miss him. But it is time to celebrate the life of a wonderful husband, father and friend who lived every day to its fullest. There are so many vivid and wonderful memories during these past twenty years that it is hard to recall them all. The visits to the old home in Lincoln when our own children were teens and the world famous Huckleberry gatherings (which resulted in the most delicious pies); the Crab Crawls to Fisherman’s Wharf followed by the best Crab feast imaginable; all the visits to El Macero—Fourth of July Parades and great BBQs, Christmas and summer trips; the incredible Puerto Vallarta home—Michael & Brenda’s wedding, the incredible Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s parties!. These memories will linger on as we remember what a wonderful brother-in-law and friend Tony was for all these years.
We are saddened for Tony’s children that had their father taken just a day after a beautiful grandson was born; how he would have enjoyed those years ahead with a new generation of grandchildren. We are saddened for Grace as she lost her soul mate with so many wonderful golden years to share in Lincoln and Puerto Vallarta. Tony and Grace opened the doors of their beautiful homes to so many family and friends and we know that all will miss the incredible host and friend that Tony was to all that passed through their doors. We know we’ll miss all of those happy occasions we shared and hoped to share for another 20 years.
All our love to his family along with our profound hope for a speedy recovery by Grace.
Barry & Sylvia Olsan
Theresa and Rocky Speake says
Grace – our fondest memories ot Tony and you are the 2005 Inauguration in DC. Remember how much fun we had watching the ceremony at the Capitol Hill Club and that evening – you and Tony, Rosario and her husband, Iris and Rocky and I – all piling into Rocky’s Jeep in our evening gowns and furs!? Ant then Rocky driving you guys to the airport in the snowstorm in order for you to catch your plane to California? Those are the times we will always remember. We love you and are keeping you in our prayers. Theresa and Rocky Speake
Joan and John Stubbs says
Dear Grace, John, Lizzie, Garrett
We were part of the Ozone Court, Hermosa Beach gang and first met Tony in 1974. Some fond memories of our dear friend: His Pontiac “tank” with the license plate LAW 72 was a fixture on the street at Ozone Ct. even after he relocated to San Francisco. The tank, which was almost as long as the street, rusted, received numerous parking tickets but for some reason Tony loved the car. A couple years after Tony moved to SF, he helped with my NPR radio show “Cooking on Air with J.C. McClain”. I had appointments to interview several wine vintners in the Napa Valley (including Robert Mondavi ) and Tony was kind enough to drive me to all the interviews and serve as my audio producer. We had great fun and sampled some delicious wine and thanks to Tony’s contribution my show was syndicated for two years.
Another great memory was when Tony drove John and I from SF to Lake Shasta to attend John Naye’s wedding to Susie. Of course we had too much to drink at the wedding, but when we got to our motel room we could hear music and the sounds of a outdoor roller skating rink. The three of us said why not and went roller skating at midnight. Tony was drinking a can of beer and put it in his back pocket. Almost immediately, he fell on his butt and the can sprung a pin-hole leak and sprayed everyone in the roller rink. But Tony didn’t care as he was having way too much fun. The next day we drove back to SF and stopped at every winery on the way.
I was lucky enough to have business in the bay area several times a year, and got to visit the Wertz’s at their beautiful Oakland Hills home. John, Lizzie, and Garrett I remember all of you as babies and toddlers. As a matter of fact Tony always wanted to name one of the boys “Montana.” And speaking of Montana, I had business in Missoula once a year for 11 years and visited Tony’s parents a couple of times. The last time I say Tony was at Ivar’s 60th birthday party and he was so happy to show John and I pictures of his kids and talk about how happy he was to be married to Grace.
As I write this, more fond memories keep coming to mind like Tony dancing at our wedding 35 years ago. John and I are so honored to be counted among Tony’s friends and we know there is one star in the night sky shinning for the one who will always be in your and our hearts.
Much love Joan and John Stubbs
Joe Whittinghill says
Tony was a tremendous leader, advocate for the university, and colleague. He helped many people and causes to be successful. I will miss his positive attitude and get it done approach. I feel fortunate to have known and worked with him. Our best wishes to Grace and his family. His legacy will live on.
Joe & Blake
Venus Caluya says
I had the privledge of meeting tony and grace at Dr. Martin chan dental office. I was then the office manager . It wasn’t easy to get tony in,but with Debbie rays help we were able to keep him on schedule. He was always pleasant ,warm and funny. My heart goes out to the family.
Pennington & Company says
Pennington & Company would like to extend our deepest sympathy to you Grace and your family in the passing of Tony. He is leaving quite a legacy!
Lety Lopez says
Tony, “Mr. Puerto Vallarta Admiral “, or” Papa Tony “, one of the first people who opened his heart, his friendship, his love to me, always with” open arms “, as his family in Puerto Vallarta.
It was an adventure full of love to work and share life with you, we learned a lot together, but mostly I will remember that you taught me to always show a smile no matter what, It was so fun joking and laughing with you, happiness spilling everywhere, anytime.
There are no words to describe how wonderful and grateful was meeting you. You were and will be a great example to me.
I love you and always miss you, dear “dady Tony”, you will be in my heart forever.
Nicole Madani says
Grace, I am so sorry for everything that happened. I am really going to miss Tony. He was so much fun and always took care of everything. Everyone loved being around him. I know that he is taking care of you from heaven now. I wish you a speedy recovery and please let me know if you need anything.
Nikki
Norm and Patti Grosfield says
Big smile, Big heart, huge man among men….These are just a few of the many fond thoughts and memories we cherish about Tony. He was always there and ever-so-kindly to everyone, his family, friends, or a stranger on the street. Tony was more than a friend to us and the Grosfields; he is more like a brother that we grew up with and loved deeply. Our dear friends Tony and Grace graciously opened their hearts and life to so many, and they are loved by all. His generosity never ceased to amaze us. Tony and Grace went to Puerto Vallarta and immediately began to make friends, become active in the culture, and were so instrumental in affecting positive change. We loved how the Puerto Vallartans fondly and with much admiration and respect called Tony “Senor Wertz”. The world is definitely a better place because of Senor Wertz! We miss you so much, Tony, and send our love and prayers to Grace, John, Lizzie, Garrett, Michael and your entire family.
Bud Zimmerman says
No words can express my feelings. A great loss to the whole world and especially to those who knew him. There will be no replacement for Tony. A great person and a great friend.