Gary R. Wentzel

Gary Richard Wentzel, 85, of Shamokin Dam, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Nottingham Village, Northumberland.

Born on December 30, 1940, he was a son to the late Dr. George and Mary (Troup) Wentzel. On June 25, 1977, he married the former Susan E. Zimmerman, who survives.

Gary served his country honorably in the United States Army. 

Gary was a 1959 graduate of Sunbury High School and furthered his education in Diesel Mechanics at Williamsport Area Community College where he was a diesel mechanic instructor at Sun Area Technical Institute for over twenty years.

Gary and his wife Susan attended All Saints Episcopal Church, Selinsgrove. He was also a member of the Greater Susquehanna Penn State University Club.

For over 30 years, Gary & Susan held season tickets to Penn State football games, sharing their love for the sport and the camaraderie of fellow fans. Together, they attended a Rose Bowl Game and four other unforgettable Bowl games, celebrating the victories and forming lasting friendships along the way.

Beyond football, Gary enjoyed tailgating with friends and participating in class reunions, where his warmth and sense of humor brought people together. His enthusiasm for life and loyalty to Penn State was unmatched, forging an enduring legacy of friendship and community. 

Gary enjoyed country drives and ice cream with Art and Gynn Montgomery.

In addition to his wife, Gary is survived by a cousin, Jim Troup; a nephew Brian Welsh; and a niece Tara (Andrew) Godwin.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Carol Felix and her husband Jack Felix.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, June 4, 2026 at All Saints Episcopal Church, 129 N. Market Street, Selinsgrove with The Rev’d Canon Paul C. Donecker officiating.

Entombment will be in the church columbarium.

All are invited for a time of food and fellowship in the church social hall following services.

Flowers will be provided by the family.

The family would like to thank Trina Miller for the care she provided to Gary and the joy she brought during their friendship.  

Memorial contributions in honor of Gary can be made to All Saints Episcopal Church for Ministries, PO Box 119, Selinsgrove, PA 17870.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary R. Wentzel, please visit our floral store.