Our community sadly lost a pillar on Saturday, July 8, 2023 when Mickey Wentz, beloved husband, father, friend, and much loved teacher, coach, and mentor passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He will be remembered for his steadfast dedication to his community, hardworking attitude, sense of humor, and his signature bowling shirts. He is survived by his wife, Nancy of 31 years, and their son, Christian. His faith in Christ, family, and humanity was unwavering.
Mickey was born in San Diego, California, but lived most of his life in Littleton, Colorado. He graduated from Littleton High School and attended the University of Denver where he received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in psychology and math. Along with serving in the U.S. Coast Guard as a rescue swimmer for eight years, Mickey was also a Certified Personal Trainer and Dad Joke conoscere.
A deeply loved teacher
Mickey made an immense impact in students’ lives during his career as a teacher. He taught math to middle and high schoolers for a total of 24 years, including 14 years at Littleton High School. He also taught in Englewood Public Schools as both a math and American history teacher. Countless students who hated school or math showed up to Mickey’s class every day because he made them feel valued, loved, respected – and would even make sure they were fed. Current and former students emphasized his impact on them through comments on social media and on a GoFundMe page raising money for medical and funeral expenses.
Beyond the classroom
In addition to his role as a math teacher, Mickey coached golf, football and soccer. He was an advisor for Littleton High School’s student council and facilitated the school’s Shades of Blue STEM program. He also taught Driver’s Education and hosted a weekly club where students would play Dungeons and Dragons after school.
Mickey LOVED cooking and even competed in the reality TV cooking show, Worst Cooks in America (Season 15), after accidentally giving his son Salmonella poisoning. In actuality, Mickey was an excellent cook – one of his best dishes being eggs benedict. He also enjoyed fishing, traveling, music, classic movies, Bob Hope and Bing Crosby Road Shows, and annually watching Shark Week.
From his sense of humor, to his deep compassion, to his hospitality and dedication, Mickey made an impact on his community that will be long remembered. The GoFundMe page, which has been organized to support the family with staggering medical bills and funeral expenses, has raised almost $20,000. Donations can be made at https://www.gofundme.com/f/gxd7y7-lions-helping-lions-mickey-wentz
Those who attend Mickey’s funeral are encouraged to wear bowling shirts in his memory. Mickey will be buried with full military honors.
