Marshall Hyder Wentz, businessman

Marshall Hyder Wentz, who owned and operated a vehicle leasing company for more than 40 years, died Nov. 4 of pneumonia at Greater Baltimore Medical Center.

The longtime Towson resident was 95.

Born and raised in Baltimore, Mr. Wentz graduated in 1933 from the old Charlotte Hall Military Academy in Leonardtown.

In 1935, he established City Express, a Baltimore trucking company. Several years later, he founded Tri-State Vehicle Leasing and operated the business for the next four decades.

He was a member of the Boumi Temple and a 60-year member of the Masons.

Mr. Wentz enjoyed hunting, fishing and boating. He was an avid golfer and was a member of the Baltimore Country Club.

Mr. Wentz also enjoyed dining and entertaining friends at the Peppermill in Lutherville, Pappas Restaurant in Northeast Baltimore and the Baltimore Country Club, family members said.

His wife of 54 years, the former Alma Cowan, died in 1990. He was married in 1990 to the former Elizabeth "Betty" Becker, who died in 2010.

Mr. Wentz's family will receive family and friends at 11 a.m. Friday at the Ruck Towson Funeral Home, 1050 York Road, with a memorial service to follow at noon.

Surviving are a brother, Charles R. Wentz of Towson; two grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. His son, Marshall Thomas Wentz, died in 2010.

fred.rasmussen@baltsun.com