Tyler Skagen was born March 28, 1994 in Gillette, Wyoming. About seven months later an accidental call was placed that would soon introduce him to his forever family. On the day Tyler’s new family were to all meet him they sat down to read their morning devotional titled “How to love your handicapped child.” That afternoon after a trip to Casper, Wyoming -Tyler met his new mom and dad and his three older brothers as they started their new lives with him.
Tyler was a very dynamic person. He taught us many lessons in life and about life. Life is not black and white. Love everyone, we are all different and we are all the same. We may communicate differently so listen carefully be open minded because we all have something to say and offer. You will be amazed from people. Be aware of your surroundings and love life! Love intensely – forgive graciously!
Tyler loved adventure he had an adventurous soul. If we went to a carnival he wanted to be on the rides. He wanted to be in the water if we were at the lake. If he was outside he knew where the closest swing was! The bumpier the car ride the more he laughed. He loved shopping and seeing people. Tyler loved horses and started riding in Torrington in their Hippo-Therapy program. He then started Hippo Therapy at the ARK and never wanted to get off the horse. Tyler had a trip on a dog sled with his dear friend Tammy and a snowmobile ride. He rode on scooters, ATVs and loved every moment and was generally not ready to be done.
Tyler grew up surrounded by family and friends. He was for most of his life active in special Olympics. He loved swimming sports. We are grateful for the kids and teachers at school and church that loved him and watched over him. He was blessed by many. His siblings always took so much interest in his daily care and adventures.
There are so many people that have been in Tyler’s life that have cared for him, looked out for him, advocated for him loved him and blessed him – that we are grateful for.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Norma & Aidriean Skagen, and Bill Hoehn & Uncle Michael Hoehn. He is survived by his parents- Rick and Becky Skagen, His brothers Jared (Greta, Hadley & Bennett), Darin (Merit), Devin (Tara, Paisleigh & Hudson) Michael, Zachary, David and his sisters Kimberly (JD), Mary and Nevaeh, and his grandmother June Hoehn & Tammy Sullivan dear friend and advocate and aunts Malea Brown (Jack) and Aunt Joy.
Tyler passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Sunday, March 10, 2024 just 18 days before his 30th birthday. Cremation has taken place and a memorial may be planned at a future date. We are excited for Tyler’s spirit to pass where he is free to run, sing and laugh and nothing will stop him. We are left with fond memories wonderful lessons and sadness. He was loved!
Rick and Becky and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. What a special family you are and what a life you gave Tyler. You are such a blessing and he certainly was as well. He will be missed. -Jack and Dawn Skinner
Rick and Becky, I am so sorry for your loss. You were so devoted to Tyler and gave him a happy home.
Rick, Becky, and family: I'm slowly catching up with the local news in the Boomerang and just saw the notice of Tyler's passing into God's complete embrace. He was a wonderful young man and joyful addition to your family. I hope our paths will cross soon.
It is always painful to lose a loved one. Keep the good memories close at heart and remember the fun times so that you will never forget how important they were in your life. Share the memories that made you laugh with your loved ones to help ease the pain.
Rick and Becky, you are in my prayers at this bittersweet time - bitter because Tyler was clearly so loved and his presence here will be so missed; sweet because he is now free from earthly cares and limitations.
So sorry to hear of Tyler's passing. I know how much you loved him and how much you miss him. My thoughts are with you. Nancy Lockwoood
Becky, Rick and Family, I am so sorry to learn of Tyler's passing. It has to be devastating! He was so fortunate to have had such a loving family, and now he's been welcomed into his Heavenly family, where he'll have no limitations. I hope you find comfort in knowing you'll be together again one day. My deepest sympathy, and my prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Rick, Becky and family, I am so very saddened with the news of Tyler's passing. I remember the day that he became a part of your amazing family. Much love, Suzanne Johnson
Dear Rick and Becky. What a wonderful tribute to a cherished young man. Far too young 💔 for him to be gone, but God seems to have things planned for us. From reading the tribute Tyler fit a lifetime in his 30 yrs on this earth. God has plans for the best ones. Being physically challenged myself,my heart goes out to the "special kids" God blessed us with. Thats a huge reason i joined the Order of Elks as our two missions we have are taking care of Veterans and "Special Kids". I think Tyler sound more special than most. He may be gone, but never forgotten. A kid among kids ; a man among men. God now holds him in the Palm of His Hands and Tyler Soars on Eagles Wings. My bet is, as much as he misses his family and friends, he's loving that ride. God Bless you both Becky and Rick. LOVE and TONS of HUGS. Pat Tracey * your Avini family
Rick and Becky, Thank you for the wonderful life you gave this sweet boy! I know he blessed you all as much as you blessed him. A true family! Prayers for you all!
So sorry about your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rick and Becky and family, I am so sorry to hear about Tyler's passing. He was so loved by you all. Your hearts are heavy at this time, filled with missing him, but also filled with many, many happy memories.
Dear Rick and Becky, the Kotby family is so very sorry to hear about your son. We are thinking of you all and wishing you peace. Linda, Sam, Kenzie and TJ
Rick & Becky, thank you for being God’s conduit of care to Tyler and family. May you be comforted now. Charles & Penny
Sorry for your loss but happy Tyler had wonderful parents like you. I also know what a blessing he must have been as we also adopted a young lady that changed our lives and taught us so much. God is so good and Tyler is in a new body and having a great time. Peace be with you.
Rick, Becky and family - I am so sorry for your loss. Losing a child is never easy. Tyler was blessed to have you, and you were blessed to share your lives with him. My condolences.
Rick and Becky, Tyler always will have a special place in my heart. Sending prayers. Elaine Volin
Rick and Becky and family our sincerest condolences for you at this time. Wishing you peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time of sorrow.
I am very impressed upon reading the story of Tyler's life. I'm sure that he will be greatly missed but rest assured that you did your best to see that he had a good life. He is safe and at rest now.
My heart goes out to the entire Skagen family in the loss of a very special young man. May his memory be etched in your minds and hearts, until you meet again. Much love and comfort to you all! Dance, until your feet hurt, swing with the wind in your face and sing till you heart's content....PTL in the most high. Blessings to all. Melody Matney
I am most saddened to hear of Tyler’s passing and send heartfelt wishes of blessings to his entire family.
Rick, My condolences to you and your family. Bless you for giving him sounds like a beautiful and wonderful life adventure. May all those happy memories bring you all joy, laughter and peace in your soul. Camille
I have never met a child/young person so loved and cherished as Tyler. May all children be so blessed. Becky, Rick, and family thank you for being advocates not only for Tyler but for all children and parents who love our special kids💕. Vicki, Haven, Trevor, Jax, & Lucas Martin
Rick, Becky and the entire Skagen family, Our hearts break for the untimely passing of such a wonderful soul. If we could all only see the world through eyes like Tyler's what a better place this world would be for all. He was an angel on earth and has regained his wings where he is free to be all he couldn't be here. Our love and strength. Chele, Doug, Kylie and Eylisch Porter
Tyler taught me more than I ever taught him in the years we worked together. I was blessed to be one of his teachers as he showed us all how to love unconditionally, have fun and laugh, and show up for each day. He was always ready for a field trip or time with our therapy dog, Seth. He will be missed by many, but I know is already welcomed to his heavenly home.
Rick and Becky and family I'm so sorry for your loss but so happy that Tyler can run free and experience the freedom from his earthly body!