Obituary: Theodore Hess Geltz Jr. (Ted)

Theodore Hess Geltz Jr. (Ted) went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 24, 2025, while enjoying his lifelong hobby at Sebring International Raceway. 

He was a resident of Winter Garden and Central Florida, both West Orange and South Lake County. 

Ted was born March 8, 1950, in Washington D.C., the son of Col. Theodore Hess Geltz “Spike” and Patty McLean Hardison Geltz. 

Ted attended Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida, where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Citrus Production. He also had EMT, Emergency Medical Technician, certification for the fire department prior to starting his career in the citrus and agricultural industry. 

Ted joined Hi-Acres based in Lake County, Florida, shortly after graduation, where he spent most of career. His career in the Citrus and Agricultural industry spanned more than 35 years. This led him to participate in multiple groups and organizations throughout his career, including Florida Southern Citrus Club, Orange County Farm Bureau past President, Winter Garden Citrus Growers Association, Old Timers Club and Hillbillies. Ted was also a member of Winter Garden Rotary Club, which included serving as President. 

He had a passion for sports car racing, which he was introduced to by his father at a young age. In the 1970s, Ted joined SCCA, Sports Car Club of America. He always looked forward to spending time at the race track, especially Sebring International Raceway. 

Ted and Sara raised their three sons at Oakland Presbyterian Church and Monteagle Sunday School Assembly. Ted was also an active member at Mosaic Church in Winter Garden, where his Love for Christ and charismatic charm led to many meaningful relationships in his Church community. He also loved nature and animals, specifically dogs, which he got from his mother. He had a sweet spot for boxers, golden retrievers and golden doodles, but would never turn away a stray. 

Every year, he eagerly looked forward to time with family and friends at Monteagle Sunday School Assembly. A family legacy started by his Grandfather C.M. Hardison. Carrying on MSSA traditions held a special place in his heart, and passing these traditions down to his three sons and grandchildren brought him great joy. 

He is survived by his three sons, Theodore Hess Geltz III “Tad” (Erika), Mitchell Hawthorne Geltz (Ashlee) and Adam Hardison Geltz (Amanda); and his five grandchildren whom he adored, Hadlee, Hardison, Pallen, Mattie and Miller. 

He is predeceased by his wife, Sara H. Geltz; father, Theodore “Spike”; mother, Patty; and his brother, Andrew Geltz. 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, June 9, at Mosaic Church Winter Garden, 14175 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden. The Celebration of Life Service will be live-streamed for friends and family who are not able to attend in person. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mosaic Church Winter Garden or Monteagle Sunday School Assembly.