David Frederick Mantz (aka: Dave, Roadman, Wizard of Waz) of Honey Brook, Pa (79) died on Thursday morning 6/25/2026. Dave will be deeply missed by his wife of 56 years, Norma Mantz; brother Clark Mantz; children Lorri Vanderlinden, Jason Mantz, Sarah Newlin; ten amazing grandchildren and a great-grandson. Dave will also be missed by many whom hechose to call family.
Dave was an active member of the local community, through his 48 years of service with Honey Brook Presbyterian Church, and a vendor at Cricket’s Antiques and Garden Market for 11 years. He faithfully supported local yard sales, auctions, roadside stands and most importantly Girl Scout cookie sales. Always willing to lend a hand to someone in need, Dave was quick to share a ride in his truck, a listening ear over a cup of coffee, an encouraging word, or even a pocket full of gas money to someone headed for an adventure.
Born in New Tripoli PA, he was raised working on his grandmother’s potato farm. It was with her in those fields where lessons of hard work, patience, respect of nature, an understanding of resilience, and a deep love for potatoes was fostered. He carried those lessons to West Chester College where he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Health and Physical Education. From there, he enjoyed 14 years as Beaver Creek Elementary School’s Phys Ed teacher. While at West Chester College, he was a gymnast and competed his way to National level in the side horse event. His love for gymnastics naturally led to coaching through many local gyms, until he eventually owned his own. Upon retirement from teaching and gymnastics, Dave expanded his hobby of wood working and began his trajectory of entrepreneurship as owner/CEO of Big Horn Trade Company, American Historical Productions and DaMa Enterprises. His businesses allowed unique travel experiences, intertwining with historical reenactments, Native American pow wows, craft shows, singer-songwriter events and genre festivals of various types including pirate, rodeo, faerie and steam punk.
A celebration of life and friends gathering will be hosted by the Honey Brook Presbyterian Church on Saturday, July, 18 2026. (4331 Horseshoe Pike, Honey Brook PA) Celebrations will begin at 11:00, immediately followed by a friends gathering where family will be available to greet. A private internment will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Dave’s memory to Honey Brook Presbyterian Church PO Box 276, Honey Brook PA 19344-0276.