Our friend, George Wentz, died on Saturday. Even though his health had been bad for a long time, it was still a bit of a shock. I was over visiting him just a couple of weeks ago and he was in the shop a couple of days later.

George was absolutely the sweetest man I have ever known. It was always a treat to be around him and see the joy he found in everything.

He was still painting up to the very end. Of course, that isn't surprising. He loved his art and well he should.

I am really at a loss for words right now. I have a lot of his art in the shop and a few pieces at home that will always be a reminder of him and the good friend that he has been. Like everyone who ever knew him, I will miss him. . .

---

George I. Wentz

George Irvin Wentz, 64, of Beaumont, passed away Saturday, March 6, 2010. A native and resident of Beaumont for most of his life, George was born September 27, 1945, and was a well known artist and poet. He also worked as a florist in Beaumont, Nederland, Austin, Texas and California. George was a graduate of South Park High School and studied art at Lamar University under the late Jerry Newman. He was a long time member of The Art Studio, where he taught art classes. For many years, George was an active member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Beaumont. He was an expert on antiques, and during the 1980's, he wrote a regular monthly column on antiques for the Antique Collector's Guide. His parents, Esca Ray Wentz, Sr. and Annie Wentz preceded him in death. Survivors include his brother, Ray Bubba Wentz and his wife Jennifer of Ben Lomond, California; aunt, Bertha Morgan of Wildwood, Texas; numerous cousins; and many friends in the Beaumont and Southeast Texas Arts Community. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 13, 2010, at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church with interment to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park under the direction of Broussard's, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont. A Christian Vigil will be held 7:00 p.m., Friday, March 12, 2010, at Broussard's. Memorial contributions may be made to The Art Studio, Inc., 720 Franklin, Beaumont, Texas 77701.