Wayne Holtz

May 1, 1990 – Oc. 25, 2025.

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Wayne Holtz, a radiant artist, performer and beloved soul of the Saranac Lake and San Antonio creative communities. Wayne left this world unexpectedly on Oct. 25, 2025, while visiting friends on the West Coast. He was 35 years old.

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Wayne’s time in Saranac Lake

Wayne Holtz, Alexandra Jefferson Darring and Sam Darring

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Wayne’s boundless creativity and love for the arts had recently found a new home when he moved to Saranac Lake. Wayne was an insightful ear to talk to in the local community. Almost every morning at Bitters & Bones, you could find him greeting friends with a deep, resonant, “Hey, girl.”

In town, he built community and fostered spaces for artistic expression, embodying creativity in all he did. Among his local contributions were hosting a lively karaoke night every Wednesday at Bitters & Bones, organizing the “Fall Fun Fest” music festival, and performing his unique original songs at the Hootenanny, held at The Garagery in the heart of town.

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Wayne’s time in San Antonio

Carly Burwell, Wayne Holtz, Cade Stevens and Siomha Kenney

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Born and raised in San Antonio, there, Holtz was known for his boundless energy, creativity and generosity of spirit. A graduate of Communication Arts High School, he discovered his passion for photography as a student, serving as class historian and capturing the life of his classmates through his lens.

Over the years, Holtz became a recognizable figure in the city’s arts and entertainment scene. A true multi-hyphenate — musician, photographer, host and fashion visionary — he combined music, performance and visual art into a unique, unapologetic expression of self. His live shows were known for their bold imagery, humor and inclusivity, often blending elements of pop, dance and theatrical flair.

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Wayne’s releases and his impact on the community

Dan Surpernant, Wayne Holtz and Cory McGill

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Holtz released several music projects, including the albums “Post-Plexi” (2016) and “Evility” (2020), along with the single “La Botanica Love,” a heartfelt nod to the inclusive San Antonio venue La Botanica, where he performed, DJ’ed, and helped cultivate a creative safe space for artists and queer performers. He also hosted “The Wayne Holtz Podcast,” featuring conversations with entertainers and creatives from around the country.

Friends and collaborators remember Holtz as a tireless supporter of others, someone who celebrated authenticity and encouraged everyone to live freely. His bright personality, humor and compassion made him a cherished friend and an unforgettable presence.

Wayne’s creativity was only matched by his kindness. Friends remember him as “a bright light,” “a legend” and “a pillar” — someone who could make you laugh until your sides hurt, and who never stopped believing in the beauty of being yourself.

His colorful outfits, quick wit and larger-than-life performances were unforgettable, but it was his warmth and sincerity that truly defined him.

Wayne Holtz

Though his time was far too short, Wayne Holtz’s light continues to shine — through his art, through his community and through every person who dares to live unapologetically, just as he did.

He is survived by his mother, Roxanne, sister, Tamora, and his cousin-sister, Alex, as well as close friends and the many individuals whose lives he touched through his art, laughter and love. A celebration of Wayne’s life will be held at Bitters & Bones in Saranac Lake on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 6 to 9 p.m.