Obituary of George Bancroft Wertman

George Bancroft Wertman, 77, of Zion, IL, passed away on Sunday December 17, 2017 at his residence.

He was born in Chicago, IL, on December 16, 1940.  

He was proceeded in death by his parents Harry and Victoria Wertman, and his son-in-law Charles Waterfield.  Also, proceeded in death by Rev. John and Olive Clark.  The Clarks had a significant influence on his life. They treated him as a son and were in instrumental in helping him grow into a God-fearing man.  

As a teenager, he gave his life to the Lord and served Him faithfully for the rest of this life. George loved to study God’s word and was called into ministry.  He attended Moody Bible Institute and graduated from Chicago Bible College.  He received a bachelors in Christian Education from Southwest Baptist College from Bolivar, Missouri.  He graduated from Southwest Baptist Theological Seminary in 1976. 

He was the pastor of Southern Baptist churches in Texas, Colorado, Missouri and Illinois. He regularly preached at rescue missions, hospitals and nursing homes.  He served as a chaplain and a volunteer at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Zion, IL for many years.  

George dedicated his life to serving the Lord.  He continuously studied the Lord’s word. He treasured reading, usually several books at a time. He took long walks for exercise and enjoyment.  He loved southern gospel music and drew great comfort from it, especially during the final years of his life.

George is survived by his wife Barbara Wertman and 3 children:  David Clark (Daina) Wertman, Faith Waterfield and Jonathan (Christine) Wertman.  He is also survived by six grandchildren: Olivia and Anna Wertman, Grace and Rachel Waterfield, and Nicholas and Lucas Wertman.   He also had a brother John (Debbie) and a sister Rose, three sisters and brothers in-law, and many nieces and nephews. 

A Visitation will be held at the First Baptist Church of Winthrop Harbor, 3001 9th St, Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096, on Friday December 22nd with Visitation at 9:30-11:00 and Service starting at 11 a.m.  Interment to follow at Pine View Cemetery Beach Park, IL.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First Baptist Church of Winthrop Harbor or Baptist Children’s Home in Carmi, Il. 

A special thank you to the team from Journey Care Hospice and Debbie, Sue and Mary for their compassionate caregiving.  Please visit the online guestbook at www.congdonfuneralhome.com.