Walter Fred Wertz, 98, of Sedalia, died Tuesday, December 18, 2012 at Fair View Nursing Home.

Fred was born March 23, 1914 in Havelock, NE to Fred J. and Anastasia (Skomorochowa) Wertz. He spent his childhood in Falls City, NE and graduated from high school there. He served his apprenticeship in Kansas City, MO for the Missouri Pacific Railroad. He then worked for McDonald Douglas Aircraft in Santa Monica, CA as a machinist and draftsman from 1939 to 1947. In 1947, upon moving to Sedalia, he opened Tally-Ho, which became State Fair Marine, and is now State Fair Spirits. The store is still family owned. A charter member of the Sedalia Country Club, Fred was an accomplished golfer and played golf up until the age of 93. He was also a loyal University of Nebraska sports fan.

On October 28, 1936 he married Maxine Madeline Freeby of Sabetha, KS. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Richard Wertz; and two sisters, Louise Ramsey and Elsie Phillips. He is survived by his wife of 76 years; three sons, Mike Wertz (Judy), Richard Wertz and Fred Wertz (Valerie); grandchildren, Andrew, Wendy, Bo, Paige, Christian, Adam, Ashley, Bree and Kelly; and 18 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 22, 2012 at McLaughlin Funeral Chapel, with the Rev. Chad McMullin officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to First Christian Church, in care of McLaughlin Funeral Chapel. Condolences may be offered online at www.mclaughlinfuneralchapel.com.

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