James David Wentz

Born on September 6, 1968, in Charleston, West Virginia, David was a proud graduate of DuPont High School, Class of 1986, where he earned First Team All-State honors as a second baseman. He continued his academic and athletic career at West Virginia State College, earning a Regents Bachelor’s Degree and competing on the WV State baseball team from 1987 to 1990.

David recently retired from Kanawha County Parks and Recreation after 20 years as Head Golf Professional at Big Bend Golf Course in Tornado. He previously worked as an assistant golf professional at both Edgewood Country Club and Kanawha Country Club. From 2007 to 2009, he returned to WV State to coach both the men’s and women’s golf teams, becoming one of the first to lead a women’s team in West Virginia Intercollegiate competition. In 2007, he was a member of the PGA President's Council on Growing the Game for hosting Play Golf America programs. Teaching the game of golf was a lifelong passion, and David was truly gifted in helping others fall in love with the sport.

David was a 26-year member of the PGA and the West Virginia chapter of the PGA. He was the winner of the 2000 WV Chapter PGA Championship. He competed numerous times in the West Virginia Open, with his best finish being 5th low professional in 1999 at Guyan Country Club. He was also an 8-time Gunner Cup assistant captain.

Beyond golf, David was deeply involved in youth baseball, coaching for Northeast Little League and cherishing every opportunity to coach his sons.

David was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Harold Lee Wentz and Shirley Blake Wentz; and by his grandparents, Harold and Thelma Wentz, and William Corbett and Roxie Blake.

He is survived by his three sons: Blake Wentz (Allison Williams) of Seth, Noah Wentz of Cincinnati, Ohio, and William Wentz of Charleston; his grandchildren, Kolhton Scott Williams and Sophia Blake Wentz; his brother, Harold Lee Wentz, Jr. (Paula); his sisters, Lois Baughman and Amy Berner (Craig); his nieces, Heidi Cummings (Paul), Danielle Taylor (Josh), and Leah Berner; his nephews, Lee Wentz and Brett Berner; and his great niece and great nephew, Samuel Cummings and Lilly Taylor.

To list or count David’s friends would be impossible. He was always ready for a good time, a good argument, a getaway car, or a good game of golf.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the exceptional nursing staff of the Medical ICU at CAMC Memorial for their care and compassion during David’s final days. They also wish to thank Diana Lucas, who graciously gave a new home to David's four-legged loyal companion, Toby.

In accordance with David’s wishes, he will be cremated. Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Stevens & Grass Funeral Home, Malden. A short service will follow at 7:00 p.m., officiated by Bob Brown.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in David's name to the West Virginia Golf Association's First Tee program, 1 Frances P. Jordan Way, Charleston, WV 25302 or at www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=BBNWJCLXKFR9C

The online guest book can be accessed at www.stevensandgrass.com