Lester L. Werntz, 87, a longtime music teacher and instructor, of Freeport and formally of Mt. Pulaski, died at FHN Memorial Hospital on Thursday, April 15, 2004.

     He was born on November 13, 1916 in Freeport, Illinois, son of Robert and Adeline (Rahn) Werntz.  Les married Audrey Meister of Mt. Pulaski at the Meister farm home on June 14, 1944.  She survives, as do two sons: Robert (Joyce) Werntz of Honduras, Central America and Donald (Linda) Werntz of Freeport.  Also surviving are five grandchildren and one great-grandchild, brother-in-law Loren and Phyllis Meister, three nephews and seven great nieces and nephews.

     Mr. Werntz came to Mt. Pulaski in 1941 for his first teaching job as music instructor in the local grade school and high school.  After 4 years in the U.S. Army during WW11, serving with the 62nd Army Ground Forces Band, he resumed his music instruction in the Mt. Pulaski school system.

     Mr. Werntz will be fondly remembered for composing the high school pep song "Fight On Pulaski" which is still played and sung today. He was also instrumental in forming the "Clown Band " for the Fall Festival parade in 1947.  The clown band continues to play at the annual Mt. Pulaski Fall Festival parades.  Also established during his teaching career in Mt. Pulaski was a high school dance band called the "Rhythamaires".  Former students will remember him for his encouragement in all aspects of school.

     Mr. Werntz was an avid tennis player and taught many local youths the fundamentals of this sport. Les won many tennis championships here and in Freeport.  Les and his family left Mt. Pulaski to return to his hometown of Freeport in 1956, where he remained in music education and instruction until his retirement in 1979.

Mr. Werntz was a graduate of Wesleyan University in music education, obtained a Masters Degree in music education and a Doctorate in counseling and guidance from the University of Illinois.

     At his request, no visitation or funeral was held.

     Memorials may be given to the Mt. Pulaski Township Museum for the restoration of the music/school room.