John Thomas “Wirty” Wirtz, a beloved educator and coach, passed away on August 8, 2025, at the age of 82.
He is survived by his loving wife, Judy A. Wirtz, his brother Jim Overholt, and his sisters Rose Parkhill, Judy Robson, Marcia LeBrecht, and Barbara Selvey.
Likewise, John also leaves behind his step-siblings Mike Overholt, Ed Overholt, Bonnie Hobson, and Paul Overholt.
Whereas, the coach was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers George and Bill Wirtz.
John Wirtz was born on October 17, 1942, in Beech Grove, Indiana, to parents George Adrian Wirtz and Dorothy (Walpole) Overholt.
For 33 years, John served at Roncalli High School as a teacher and as the coach for both baseball and basketball.
He led the school’s baseball team to the state runner-up title in 1982, a moment that remains a proud memory for the Roncalli community.
Before Roncalli, he taught and coached at Cardinal Ritter High School.
His impact on sports in Indiana was recognized with inductions into both the Indiana High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame and the Indiana Amateur Softball Association Hall of Fame for his skills as a fast-pitch player.
John’s connection to baseball went back to his days at the University of Indianapolis (UIndy), where he played for four years before returning later as an assistant baseball coach.
Beyond sports, he was one of the founding members of Hearts and Hands of Indiana, showing his dedication to helping the community.
Friends remember John not only for his achievements but for his warm and welcoming nature.
His high school classmate, Jim “OB” Obergfell, recalled meeting John as a freshman at Cathedral High School in 1956. The two shared years of friendship, playing basketball and baseball, and being part of one of the best basketball teams in the school’s history.
Another friend shared vivid memories of John from the late 1950s and beyond, recalling his sharp skills as a shortstop, his leadership as a guard on the 1960 Cathedral basketball team, and his constant presence at gatherings, games, and community events.
His karaoke performance of “Strokin’” at a friend’s retirement party was even said to be good enough for America’s Got Talent.
Julie Kidwell Featheringill wrote:
Another one who has gone to soon. What a Great Coach, Teacher and Friend To All!!! Rest In Peace John Wirtz You’re Already Missed. Prayers being said for your Family. Blessings Judy.
Julie Kidwell Featheringill
Visitation for John is scheduled on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Roncalli High School Gymnasium, and again on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until noon at St. Roch Catholic Church on South Pennsylvania Street in Indianapolis.
The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at noon, with members of the 1982 state runner-up baseball team serving as pallbearers. Burial will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery.
During this difficult time, we pray for the strength of Wirtz’s wife, friends, and extended family.
Rest In Heavenly Peace, John Wirtz!
