Early Roots and Family Influence
Born in Ohio, David Wortman grew up watching his father, Bob Wortman, dominate the officiating world. Bob, a trailblazer who officiated both the NCAA Men’s Basketball Finals and the Super Bowl in the same year, introduced his son to the rigors of high-level basketball refereeing.
A Career Defined by Integrity
David’s own path took him from high school gyms to the national stage, where he earned a reputation for strict rule enforcement and an unyielding presence on the court. Alongside peers such as Paul Armstrong, Chris Stokes and Chris Besecker, he became one of the most respected area officials.
Mentorship and the Next Generation
Beyond his on-court duties, David mentored a new wave of officials, emphasizing trust among referees, players and spectators. Fellow official Stan Evans, a longtime colleague from Sidney, recalled, "Get the calls right, and the game takes care of itself," a maxim that David lived by.
Later Years and Community Impact
After decades of service, David retired from the NFL back-judge role to focus on family and a successful insurance business in Findlay. His death at 73, following a recent heart surgery, prompted tributes from across the basketball community. Though he is no longer on the court, his legacy endures in the integrity and mentorship he championed.