Tyler Robert Rathbun, beloved son of Theresa and Clay Rathbun and brother of Alexander, passed away Sunday, November 25, 2012. The world has been deprived of a sunny, talented and charming young man too soon.
Tyler was born December 22, 1994 in Kansas City, MO. He attended Westwood View Elementary School; Indian Hills Middle School and Shawnee Mission East High School where he was a senior.
At an early age, Tyler found his passion and the place where he could make an impact: on a soccer field. Tyler was an accomplished soccer player, starting by kicking the ball with his older brother in the back yard. He won multiple awards and recognitions, most notably breaking a school record by scoring 22 goals in his senior season and earning Regional Offensive Player of the Year, a first for any Shawnee Mission East soccer player.
Tyler loved the outdoors and spent time hunting, fishing and hiking. One of his favorite places to spend time outdoors was at the family cabin in the Colorado Rocky Mountains.
But more importantly, Tyler was loveable and loving. He had a big heart, treating others with compassion and kindness. He went out of his way to be kind even when he didn’t need to be kind. He lit up a room with his big smile and infectious laugh. He was someone people were drawn to and he drew energy from others.
Tyler will be missed by his parents, Theresa and Clay Rathbun, his brother, Alex, paternal grandparents Ron and Betty Rathbun, Uncles Randy and Cory Rathbun and Aunt Lori Kerr, several great aunts and great uncles, numerous cousins and a host of friends. Tyler was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Howard and Eileen Vladar.
The funeral service will be held Friday, November 30, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. at Village Presbyterian Church, 6641 Mission Rd., Prairie Village, Kansas. A gathering celebrating Tyler’s life will follow at 6:30 p.m. in the Shawnee Mission East High School auxiliary gym.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the Tyler Rathbun Memorial Fund for future development of youth soccer and a soccer field in Tyler’s memory. Contributions may be sent C/O: Signature Funerals, 8019 State Line Rd, Kansas City, MO 64114.
Tyler’s Memorial Service will streamed live from the Village Presbyterian website at www.villagepres.org
Assistance by Funeral Advocates, LLC. Arr: Signature Funerals 8019 State Line Rd Kansas City, MO 816-214-5174 www.cathyb6.sg-host.com
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Caroline shared with us some favorite memories of your Tyler. His favorite Mickey Mouse shirt the Caroline called “creepy” and Tyler kindly told her was his favorite shirt. She also saw him in boxers and cowboy boots and when she asked him if he wanted to put pants on, Tyler looked down and simply said, “No, I’m good.” I think this speaks to great confidence and humble nature. Caroline was blessed to know him. Our prayers are with you all. Caroline Breckenridge and her family.
A sweet, sweet boy
his special grin
I can’t believe
we’ll never see him again
My heart aches
for his family and friends
And I can’t comprehend
this untimely end
Those special times
we all spent together
We hold dear in our hearts
forever and ever
Always a smile
a kind word to offer
He excelled at it all
especially soccer
A passion for life
a love for outdoors
The infectious laugh
we’ll hear no more
No words can describe
the pain we all hold
So live now for Tyler
you can do it, be bold
He would want us to go on
fulfilling our dreams
A life of accomplishment
always being a team!
RIP Tyler!
Dear Tyler Family and Community…I am so sad to hear of Tyler’s passing. My daughter Alex has been so hurt and in pain from the reality and loss of his happy spirit. I pray for your community, that you find a sense of understanding and peace with such a tragic loss. I am so awed by the Lancer community from the surrounding colleges and the pictures on Tyler’s Facebook page. I will think of his face often, even though I didn’t know him and I will pray for all of you during your loss and pain. God Bless you.
Theresa, Clay & Alex – There are no words that can relay our sorrow in this tragedy..Please know that you all, as well as your whole community, are in our thoughts & prayers. From all the comments I have read, Tyler was an outstanding young man and will be missed by so many..May God hold you in the palm of His hand in the coming days, months & years..