Tribute from Friends

When I think about Tyler, I fondly remember the good times we all had as friends.  From climbing on the train cars to hanging out in the basement.  We were always able to talk as friends; I don’t believe that I have a single bad memory of him.  Tyler was a guy who was always there for everyone.  Whether you did something wrong or did something right, he was there.  Whether you were his friend or not, you knew how big his heart was.  I can’t think of anyone that wasn’t his friend. When you look back on Tyler’s life there really was a legacy he left behind, so to speak, it was his friendship.  Whether he was helping us with homework or through a tough time.  He was a rock and I can’t say I’ve ever met anyone like him.  The guy never found fault with anyone else, ever! no matter how in the wrong someone was, he rooted for them.  Tyler was a friend and more importantly he was a brother to us and even if I tried, I don’t think I’m going to be able to forget or that any of us will forget the amazing person he was to me and to everyone else. 

 

Tyler was a brother to all of us, when no one else was around we always had him.  I’ll never forget all the good times we had together and the joy that he brought us. He made our lives better and we could not have asked for a better friend.  I’d only known him for a year, yet he was the best friend I’ve ever had.  He was able to touch our lives in a way that we will always remember.  He never spoke ill of anyone and I don’t think he ever understood what a truly wonderful human being he was.  He brought out the good in all of us and I can’t think of a single bad memory.  It won’t ever be the same without Tyler but we will carry his legacy forever and always.

Tribute by Cousins

Where do I even start, you were one of the most interesting, knowledgeable and fun-loving people in my life. I always admired how you never let a question stay a question.  If you were wondering about something, you’d simply look it up and two seconds later you would know the answer.  I would always learn something new when I was around you.  I always loved the fact that you were the only one so far to have given me a creative nickname.  You called me My Manda, so I was your Manda and you were my Ty.  I have so many stories that bring a smile to my face but a lot of them were just “you had to be there kind of moments”.  I’ll never forget the countless hours of easy video games we played because those were the only ones that I could play or you leading me through a virtual reality horror game telling me everything was fine right before I’d scream my face off because of a jump scare you didn’t mention was coming, you’d laugh at my reaction.  I watched my first anime with you and I always loved coming over to watch any anime series that we were currently on.  Making you laugh would always be a huge accomplishment for me because you always made me laugh and you friendly sound effects always lit up my day.  I remember you playing a video game and both of us just humming along to the music playing in the background over and over again.  Its going to be hard coming over and you not being there, say Hi and light up my day.  I’m so thankful for the time that we got to share together.  We’re gonna miss you so much but I’m looking forward to seeing you in heaven Tyler. 

                                                                                                            --Cousin Miranda

Tyler’s passing was and still is, a hard one to swallow. My mind has been racing since I heard; at our family gatherings we had in spite of this tragedy, I had a hard time having fun and not thinking about how I wouldn’t get to sit down with him and discuss issues that were of importance to no one but us.

We loved to delve into the deepest, most touchy subjects of theology and philosophy and politics. We’d discuss our philosophies on “the separation of church and state” or “socialism vs capitalism,” anything that plagued our minds. Although him and I often had very, very different views of the world, he had a listening ear that was not to be surpassed, and I regret to say that I can’t say the same for myself. I cannot recall who said this, but someone said, “It is the mark of a wise man to be able to entertain a thought, without accepting it,” and Tyler can be called a very wise man. Me being the slow talker that I am, I will always appreciate and miss the way he - although he did not agree with my view - listened to what I had to say till the end without a single interruption. I hate to say it but often I was guilty of reading material or researching just to stick it to his “wrong” viewpoint at the next gathering or the next time we met, but he wasn’t. He had a very busy mind, and lots of his questions and viewpoints were misunderstood by me and many others I’m sure, as an act of defiance or rebellion, when they were simply just part of his quest for understanding. Although I spent a lot of time trying to prove him wrong, it was never out of hate or spite, but it was misdirected love for him, I wanted to show him the “right” way to live. And for that I am deeply sorry. I will miss having someone who I can burden with my latest philosophical discovery, someone who listens genuinely from a heart of learning.

I could see a love in his eyes for everyone, especially for Angie. When he talked to Angie I could see the deepest care in his countenance, the care of a mother bear to its cub. I could see it in his eyes that if ANYONE would ever try to hurt her, he would be there to mess them up. It didn’t always seem like it because he would avoid human contact, but I always saw through that. When I would see him, he and I would smile, and he knew what was coming. He knew he’d have to fight away from a hug, and I’d have to chase him…but he wouldn’t fight very hard. He’d pretend to hate it but I knew that he loved to love and be loved.

Regardless of why this tragedy took place, I know that God aches and pains with us for the loss of what would’ve been one of his smartest, most cunning and strategical ambassadors to this earth. Tyler struggled with theology, and that shouldn’t be misunderstood as an atheistic viewpoint, it should be understood as a journey he needed to take to fully understand his faith. That is more effort put into his faith than many of us can say we’ve put in. I can say with full confidence that he would’ve come through that struggle with an understanding of God and faith like no other, I can also say that he would’ve lived without any man made religion, controlling rules, or tradition, because as many of us know, he was quick to point out the fallacies of these and they frustrated him. One more thing I can point out with full confidence and peace, is that, though he wrestled with his beliefs, our loving Father is currently showing him around his new living space, answering all the questions and frustrations that not many people here on earth would’ve taken seriously, with an understanding heart and a kind cadence, smiling with care at Tyler.

                                                                                    --Cousin Darwin

A Tribute to Tyler

A Tribute to Tyler

It is an honour today to be here to talk about Tyler on behalf of the teachers of MBCI.  Tyler was a special student to us all.

Saint Francis of Assisi once wrote, “All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle”.

Today, I want to talk about Tyler’s light. I thought Tyler had star quality, and the light from his star was evident to us all.

Not too long ago, I was talking with Mr. Warkentine.  He said that on at least one occasion, he told Tyler that he thought he had a gift for the sciences, that perhaps he should pursue science.  I was taken a back a little, because, from my perspective, Tyler had a gift for French and that perhaps he should pursue becoming bilingual.  Then, I realized that Tyler is a just a bright kid, a star student.

I loved having Tyler as a student in French class.  I first taught him in Grade 6, then again in Grade 8, Grade 9 and Grade 10.  In Grade 6, I saw his potential right away.  I was in fact, slightly intimidated.  I thought that he must have had a really good French teacher and that I had to at least be as good as him or her.  I recall Tyler being a narrator for our many plays that we did back then.  La lune est tombe dans l’eau.  Who can forget that line!  Now, in Grade 6 French, we learn to say how old we are and what activities we enjoy, but back then, the moon falling in the water was a thing and Tyler did that thing very well.  He had excellent ease and pronunciation, he was a natural!

It was not just his success with the subject matter that stood out, it was also the way he treated others, his fellow students and his teachers.  He was kind, gentle and respectful.  He was someone we all enjoyed being around.  In Grade 8, he brought a sense of maturity, that is not an easy thing to do in Grade 8.  In Grade 9, he learned quickly how to talk about what he did yesterday, what he is doing today and what he is going to do tomorrow, all in French.  This included of course playing video games, doing homework, eating and sleeping in!

Tyler had a way about him that made others feel comfortable.

Simon sent me a message the other day that said, “Tyler was a good student but an even better friend. Last year, I was new to French.  When I did not understand something, I simply looked over at Tyler. He also helped me a lot with Math.”

Emily said, “Tyler came to MBCI in Grade 6 and I remember thinking he was the most funny and smart kid in the class. This year I've heard many students say how smart, athletic/fast, kind, funny, and "amazing at video games" Tyler was.”

Johann said, “Tyler was an amazing guy. He especially loved talking on an app called discord.  Every night you could find him there ready to have a conversation. He always put a smile on my face.”

Sarah commented, “Tyler made me smile. He was one of things that I looked forward to every time I had French class, no doubt about it.  All the memories I have of Tyler are full of such happiness and laughter.”

Sarah’s comment makes me think about a day, only about three short weeks ago when Tyler, Derrick, Sarah and Renee all touched their noses.  They did this to not be picked for something.  I don’t know exactly what they did not want to be chosen for.  I did not ask, I thought I would wait it out and see what they were up to.  Their fingers stayed on their noses for a solid 20 minutes.  It was not distracting at all. I never did figure it out.

Wes Koslowsky was Tyler’s English teacher.  Mr. Koslowsky has a lot to say about Tyler.  He deeply appreciated Tyler’s wit and creativity.  He described his mind as rich and fertile.  Mr. Koslowsky sees each one of us as creators, and he also saw Tyler as an extraordinary creator.

Mr. Plett was also touched by Tyler’s insight in Bible class.  In his Bible journal, he recently wrote, “Life is best lived and happiest in the company of others and not alone.”

Ms. Melendez appreciated how helpful he was in Nutrition class.  He always made the class easier to manage.

I guess what stands out for me is that Tyler knew how to treat others well, he was a calm spirit that inspired a high standard of regard for others and he also had a personal standard for academic achievement.

This past year, our French class had the opportunity to make a couple of videos for Manitoba Education.  I was eager for Tyler to show off, to be a star.  For our first filming, at the last minute, he decided not to participate.  I respected his wishes and did not push him.  He said he felt anxious and was concerned about what he would look like on the video.  I knew he would just look like a star, an awesome French student.  So, for the second filming, I really encouraged him, I pushed him.  In the end, he did it and Tyler shone.  His talent and his character came through.

Next Monday morning at school is going to be vey difficult.  Tyler’s presence will be missed.  It is my prayer that Tyler’s star light will continue to shine in our hearts and inspire us to work hard, to make others laugh and to love one another well.

To Jake, Lisa and Angeline.  May you find comfort in knowing that Tyler was a special student to us teachers and a special friend to his peers.  We will think of you often and truly wish you comfort.

I want to end by sharing a special message from Aden, one of Tyler’s dear friends.  I saved this for last because I know I will cry, so please bear with me.

“After meeting in Grade 6 we became friends, as you accepted me for being me. You were always there when I needed someone to talk to. I had a lot of fun playing video games with you, cycling to your home, watching movies with you and laughing together. However, my favourite time spent with you was just talking, simply talking and we talked a lot. It is not fair to sum up my thoughts in a few descriptive words, but I can only say this... your kindness, your honesty and your compassion were real. Tyler, you will always hold a very special place in the hearts of everyone who knew you. You will be missed so much. True friendship was your gift to me and for that I am truly grateful...Thank you.”

Sincerely,

Jodi Daly (Madame Daly, Tyler’s French Teacher)

Eulogy by Parents

LISA:  Tyler was born on March 18 2002, in the town of Arborg, Manitoba.  He was our second born son and we were thrilled with his arrival.  He was a very content and happy baby.  Roderick, his older brother by two years was also very exited to have a new brother as he would now have someone to play with on the family farm.  God had blessed us with two healthy beautiful boys.  Eighteen months later his younger sister joined the family.  Tyler was a generous person, the last Monday that Tyler was with us he mentioned that the French class wanted to buy a gift for their teacher, even though French hadn’t always been his favorite subject he really liked his teacher and he along with his classmates wanted to all chip in money to buy her a gift.  He had already given $5 of his own money but he said if there were some students that were not able to contribute, he wanted to make up the difference. When he came home, he asked for money but then added he should not even have asked because he would just give his own money.  Tyler had a very compassionate heart and was very sensitive to the feelings of others.  He was a very deep thinker and often worried about situations far beyond his maturity.  At the age of six Tyler would worry about not being able to be a good father when he grew up.  We would have long conversations about it and addressed his fear by teaching him about what God’s Word says.  As Tyler got older, he continued to think so deeply worrying and fearing that he would never be able to get a career that he enjoyed after college because no one would hire someone like him.  He could not seem to understand how gifted and talented he was.  His teachers have always told us that he was a very smart student and his grades reflected that.  Tyler enjoyed reading about things he was interested in and was a very good writer, he was also able to think critically about things before he formed an opinion.  During our conversations Tyler would often surprise us with how much information he knew about a large variety of topics. Tyler also had a great sense of humor and often made witty remarks which had everyone laughing.  Although he had so many wonderful gifts and was a blessing to us Tyler struggled with low self esteem.  Tyler did not seem to see himself as others saw him.  It brings me so much joy to know that he is now able to see himself for who he truly is an amazing funny and so very talented young man. 

JAKE:  Tyler was not afraid to share his belief in Jesus Christ.  There was an event that happened early in his life that helped strengthen his faith in God and it was something that Tyler still talked about.  I know that Tyler would like us to share it with you today.  In 2010 we moved to the city from our farm in Riverton, but we were back on the farm to do some work just before school started.  I had gone to the barn which was on my brother in law’s yard and my brother in law had gone to unload a load of square bales in the bale shelter.  Our three kids and his oldest son had gone with him to play on the bales.  My brother in law had unloaded part of the trailer and needed it backed up to unload the rest.  The youngest three kids were out of the way on the pile of bales in the shelter, so he told Roderick to back up the trailer.  The trailer was hooked to a small pickup truck.  Tyler had decided to jump onto the trailer and just as he landed the trailer jerked and he fell between the trailer and the truck on his stomach with his face down.  The truck tires drove right over him and the tracks were clearly visible on his back.  The tire drove unto his back underneath his shoulder blade on one side then over the other shoulder blade rubbing against the side of his head and ear.  There was dirt pressed into his teeth and ear, but Tyler got up on his own.  My brother in law came running to him to make sure he was OK and then came to tell me that Tyler had been run over by a truck.

LISA:  Jake quickly brought Tyler to the house and told me what happened but knew no details and I took him to emergency. Tyler would start to cry and then stop short.  He said it hurt so bad he needed to cry but it hurt too much to cry.  The drive to emergency was about 35 minutes.  On the way Tyler asked me to pray for him that the pain would go away.  I prayed for him and by the time we got to the hospital I had to keep him from falling asleep.

JAKE:  Meanwhile back at home I went back to my brother in law to see what had happened. That’s when my brother in law told me that Roderick had been the one driving the truck and looked up to see Roderick still sitting behind the wheel worrying about what had happened to Tyler.  I tried to comfort him saying Tyler would be fine.  We went back to the house with Roderick worrying about Tyler the whole time.  He tried to figure out what he could do for Tyler to make up for what he had done.  He wanted to use all the money he had in the bank to buy Tyler a bike. 

LISA:  Back at the hospital Tyler was taken in by the staff there and strapped to a board to protect his neck.  Tyler was taken in for x-rays and brought back into the room to wait for the results.  The doctor took a cloth and cleaned his face and teeth while chatting with Tyler.  When the x-rays were done, he left Tyler and me alone a bit to go look at them.  As soon as Tyler and I were alone Tyler started to cry not for pain but for Roderick.  He hoped that Roderick would not feel to bad because it wasn’t his fault.  The x-rays were sent to the city to specialists for closer observation.  At the hospital Tyler was completely relaxed and I couldn’t tell that he was in pain anymore although if I asked, he said his chest was still hurting.  When the doctor came back, he said there was no damage, and nothing was broken.  He unstrapped Tyler from the board and told him he could tell his friends that he was iron man, he could get run over by a truck and nothing happened to him.  Tyler said, “that’s not the reason”.  “What’s the reason?” the doctor asked.  “Are you a Christian?” Tyler asked.  The Doctor said he was, and Tyler said that was the reason God had protected him.  When Tyler got home, he told Roderick not to feel bad and Roderick was so happy to see him.  Tyler never doubted that a miracle had happened that day.

JAKE:  Tyler looked up to his older brother and was proud of his accomplishments.  After Roderick’s passing Tyler and Angeline got even closer as siblings.  He helped her whenever she needed help with her computer or phone and Tyler would let her know about a new video game, he knew she would enjoy playing.  Tyler found it easy to talk to his sister Angeline whom he dearly loved and even commented to friends that he wished everyone was as easy to talk with as his sister.  Tyler would also help us with our computer problems.  Just recently I tried for hours to fix a problem with my monitors and when I asked Tyler, he had it fixed with a few clicks of the buttons.  He built his first computer when he was 12.  You can see the computer he built in 2016 on the display in the lobby.  Tyler also enjoyed cooking.  We really enjoyed his meat loaf and enchiladas.  Several years ago, he did all the Christmas baking.

LISA:  Although Tyler’s passing will be difficult for us and we miss him so much we believe that God will give us the strength to live each day knowing that Tyler and his brother Roderick are now at home with their Savior.  What an amazing reunion they must have had.  Tyler was sensitive and compassionate to those who were hurting, and we need to continue to reach out to those who are hurting showing them love and kindness because we don’t always know the battles they fight.  Many people are praying for us and we ask you to continue to pray for Jake Angeline and myself.  We covet your prayers and know that we will only get through this with God.  Our love and faith in him have not changed.  Although we are devastated and full of sorrow from missing our sons God has given us a peace that passes all understanding.  John 14:1-3 says Let not your heart be troubled, ye believe in God, believe also in me.  In my father’s house are many mansions if it were not so I would have told you I go to prepare a place for you and if I go and prepare a place for you I will come again and receive you unto myself that where I am there ye may also be.

JAKE:  We will miss our boys each minute of every day but we know without a shadow of a doubt that one day we will all be reunited again and we will spend eternity together and we feel a special love from God and to all of you.  Thank-You