The Reverend Jim Wentz died in Freeport, Long Island, on August 5, 2014, aged 79.

Jim was a philosopher, thought-leader, and writer. His strong qualities of patience, kindness, and understanding were seen when teaching the basics of power tools, beginner’s chess, and life lessons such as, “Do the best you can.

James R. Wentz was born on August 17, 1934 to Orville and Louise Wentz. He earned a B.A. from Indiana Central University in 1961 and a B.D. from Meadville Lombard Theological School in 1966. Mr. Wentz was ordained to the ministry in 1966 by the All Souls Unitarian Church of Indianapolis, IN. He then served the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta, NY (1966-1976), and the South Nassau Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Freeport, NY (1976-1980).

Jim earned a M.S. at the University of Bridgeport in 1981 and launched a specialized career in conducting weddings. He became popularly known as “Rev. I Do,” performing weddings for over three decades. The Reverend Mr. Wentz was active within the denomination and with the UUMA in many roles. Even after his retirement from parish ministry, he was an active member of the New York Metro District of the UUMA.

He is remembered as never being without a new joke at ministers’ gatherings.

Jim Wentz is survived by his daughter Lisa Medley, son Nicholas Went, and three grandchildren. A memorial service was held on November 1, 2014 at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Shelter Rock, Manhasset, NY 11030. Messages of condolence may be sent to Lisa Medley.