In Loving Memory of Tyler Robert Smith (Vancouver, BC)
With deep sorrow and love, we share the passing of our beloved friend, brother, and community light, Tyler Robert Smith, who left this world on June 2, 2025, in Vancouver, British Columbia. Tyler was just 34 years old—a vibrant soul whose life, though cut far too short, was a radiant tapestry of love, laughter, and meaningful connection.
Tyler lived with his heart wide open. Known for his boundless energy, fierce compassion, and a spirit that welcomed everyone, Tyler brought warmth into the lives of all who knew him. Whether you met him once or had the joy of knowing him for years, you left his presence feeling seen, supported, and uplifted.
A proud advocate and passionate voice within the LGBTQ+ community, Tyler was never afraid to stand up for what was right. He believed in equality, in love without condition, and in the power of chosen family. He brought people together in moments of joy and in times of hardship—always with an open heart, a comforting word, and usually a well-timed joke. His courage and authenticity inspired others to live more boldly, love more deeply, and celebrate who they truly are.
Tyler found peace and joy in the simple pleasures of life—gardening, nurturing his vibrant green space, and caring lovingly for his chickens, who he often treated more like family than pets. These quiet, grounding rituals reflected his deep connection to nature and his desire to create beauty and life wherever he went.
Another constant companion and source of joy in Tyler’s life was his dog, Kiki, a spirited, lovable sidekick who shared in his adventures around the city and beyond. Whether strolling along Vancouver’s oceanfront paths or relaxing at home in the garden, Tyler and Kiki were inseparable—a bond of pure, unconditional love.
Tyler’s absence is felt profoundly by those he leaves behind: his family, his many close friends, his neighbors, and the broader LGBTQ+ community of Vancouver. But even in our grief, we are comforted by the memories he gifted us—the way he danced like nobody was watching, laughed until he cried, and opened his heart to everyone he met.
To honor and celebrate Tyler’s extraordinary life, a memorial gathering will be held on July 5, 2025, in Vancouver. We welcome all who knew and loved Tyler to join us in sharing stories, memories, and the love he spread so freely in his time here. The details of the celebration will be shared with the community soon.
Tyler Robert Smith was a rare light—a free spirit, a gardener of hearts, and a guardian of joy. His legacy will live on in every person he touched, in every seed he planted, and in every act of kindness carried out in his name.
Rest gently, Tyler. You are missed. You are loved. You are remembered—forever.
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