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Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
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Melvin Wertz
MELVIN "MEL" WERTZ
Cedar Rapids
Melvin Theodore "Mel" Wertz, 94, of Cedar Rapids, passed away peacefully April 1, 2015, at UnityPoint Health-St. Luke's Hospice Unit in Cedar Rapids. Visitation will be Friday, April 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. Private family graveside services: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.
Survivors include his daughter, Mindy Ewing of Cedar Rapids; grandson, Shane (Carrie) Ewing; great-grandchildren; Grant Theodore, Clark Elliott and Anthony Aaron; and special nephew, Robert (Helen) Wertz.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Meldon Wertz; sister, Madeline Kofron; two brothers, Raymond and Robert Wertz; and son-in-law, Sid Ewing.
Mel was born Oct. 27, 1920, the son of Edward and Emma (Peters) Wertz. He served with the U.S. Navy during World War II and was a life member of VFW Post 788 in Cedar Rapids.
Mel had a great love for NASCAR and for his family. His family called him "Pappy," a name given to him by Sid. "Pappy" was very proud of his grandson, Shane, and just adored his three great-grandchildren. He would send them a card every week so they too would get mail. This was a tradition that carried on for five plus years. He would also include a sticker for each card which he picked out especially for them.
Dad/"Pappy," We will miss you very much. Just know how much you are loved. You will never be forgotten.
Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.
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