Melvin Johnson Wertz

Melvin Johnson Wertz age 79 of Washington, DC passed peacefully on April 25, 2016 at his home of 65 years, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on July 19, 1936 at Sibley Hospital to the late Melvin and Ruth Wertz, he was preceded in death by his beloved sisters Ginny and Sara. Melvin attended Woodrow Wilson High School and then American University, where in 1958 he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication. He had a keen interest in Radio and TV and landed his first broadcast job with the then WTOP-TV and CBS News. There he worked as Floor Director and then Assistant Director. Mel joined ABC News in 1963, and after a long career, retired in 1991. He worked on many programs, both live and taped, as Associate Director, including Nightline and Issues and Answers. He was also a member of the Director's Guild of America. Melvin had phenomenal recollection of all things news and film related, and was considered the “Historian” of the ABC News Washington Bureau. He was the go-to guy for his friends and colleagues at the ABCeniors luncheons, which he frequently attended.

Mel had a passion for theatre and travel. He enjoyed countless trips to NYC for Broadway shows, as well as many excursions around the world. Most of all, he cherished his family and friends, with whom he kept in touch over the years, more than you will ever know. He is survived by his cousins Wendy, Elle and Diane and their families, and by close friends Bill, Bob and Steve. We will miss him dearly. “Love You Big.”

Family and friends are invited to call at Joseph Gawler’s Sons LLC. 5130 Wisconsin Avenue NW (corner of Harrison St.) on Monday May 9, 2016 from 10:00 AM until Noon, when a Funeral Service will be held in the Joseph E. Hagan Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Rockville Cemetery, Rockville, MD.

Arrangements under the direction of Joseph Gawler's Sons LLC, Washington, DC.