Payton C. Vertz, age 16, passed away unexpectedly on October 16, 2026. He was born on August 24, 2010, to Jane Echlin and Adam Vertz. Payton was currently a student at Two Rivers High School. During Payton’s time at school, he became interested and found a liking to mechanics and welding.

Payton enjoyed keeping busy with the things he loved, including building Legos and putting together model cars. He had a love for music of every genre, enjoyed playing video games, reading books – especially westerns, playing baseball, and going fishing. He also enjoyed watching sports, All-Star Wrestling being his favorite. Payton was rarely ever seen without his cowboy boots on; they became a familiar part of who he was.

Payton will be deeply missed by his parents, Adam Vertz and Janie Echlin; his sister, Janice Echlin; his grandma, Jane Echlin; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Walter and Mary Vertz, his grandpa, William Echlin, his uncle, Ronald Vertz, and his cousin, Chelsea Harding. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at the Deja & Martin Funeral Chapels, 1506 18th Street, Two Rivers. The family will greet relatives and friends Friday evening, November 20, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The visitation will continue Saturday morning at the funeral home from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. Pastor Roger Harrison will preside at the service. A private family burial will take place at a later date.

Memorials in Payton’s name may be directed to Open Bible Baptist Church, 2021 S. 14th Street, Manitowoc, WI 54220 or through the Go Fund Me link: https://gofund.me/fffcf1da6

A Family Benefit will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Two Rivers Community House, 1520 17th Street, Two Rivers. There will be raffles, gift baskets, and a silent auction.

The Deja & Martin Funeral Chapels of Two Rivers is assisting the Vertz family with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting dejamartin.com.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Open Bible Baptist Church, Pastor Roger Harrison and his wife Shannon and the Manitowoc Walmart for all their love and support given to them through this unimaginable tragedy.