Tyler R. Christman

“Live Like Tyler” a statement that may not mean much to some, but to the Carthage Community, it’s a way to honor a beloved son, brother, friend and teammate. Tyler Christman was an incredible fourteen-year-old boy who had a love for football, lacrosse, fishing, racing and riding anything with a motor. He had a passion for life and a gift to connect with whomever he met, turning strangers into friends.

On September 18, 2021, amid his JV football game, Tyler suffered a tragic brain bleed from an undiagnosed Vascular Malformation in his brain. Upon doing everything they could, doctors could not stop the bleeding. Tyler passed away three days later with his family by his side. Upon his death, Tyler’s organs were donated, saving the lives of five complete strangers.

It’s been three years since the Christman’s lost a piece of their family, a piece of their hearts. Tyler’s Dad, Jason, posted this tribute to his son on the anniversary of the life-altering day.

            "September 18th, 2021, was going to be a great day. It was a beautiful sunny September day, we woke up with excitement for the day as Sam took Tyler Christman to school early in the morning to get on the bus with his team to go to Syracuse to play football, we also had our race cars loaded and ready to go because right after the football game we were supposed to hurry back from Syracuse to Evans Mills Raceway Park to race in the John Burr Classic. We had a plan for our racing family and friends to have the cars at the track and ready to go for us to participate in the biggest race of the year. Sam and I went to the Football game and watched from the stands as Tyler made us proud with his actions on the football field. Tyler was a natural leader and I watched as his team mates looked to him for guidance on defense. He loved his team and he loved sports and competition. He was making tackles and giving 110% like he always did. Shortly after making a tackle, I watched as Tyler was getting set for the next play as linebacker when he suddenly put his hands on the sides of his helmet and looked to the sidelines to let his coaches know that something was wrong. Coach Dorchester waved for him to come to the sideline and started to talk to him and suddenly Tyler collapsed into Coach Dorchesters' arms. This horrible memory is forever etched into my brain, it is the moment that my life changed forever for the worst. My exciting, and beautiful Saturday turned into a nightmare that will never end and I have to live the rest of my life with a broken heart and huge hole in my life. This year would be Tyler's senior year of High School and I am sure that he would have fulfilled his goal of being starting Quarterback this year, I also know he would have several more race wins under his belt by now. Homecoming king, prom king, friendships, girl friends, sports awards all real possibilities for him if he was able to stay here and have the opportunity. If you are reading this and you have children please hug them and tell them and most importantly show them that you love them. I love you Tyler and I will always cherish the life we lived together. Love Dad."

On Friday, September 20, 2024, the Carthage High School Boys Varsity Football Team walked out onto their home turf, each player and coach stopping to touch Tyler’s memorial monument, ready to play for Ty.  This would have been Tyler’s senior year. The Carthage team found themselves down 26 – 0.  With Tyler on their minds and always in their hearts, the inspiring feeling there was a 12th man on the field pushed them to find a way. After what some called the greatest game, the boys prevailed 41 to 38.  Family, friends and spectators cheered from the stadium while the team sent their love above knowing Tyler was by their sides the entire way. The community, blown away with this game, flooded Facebook with posts and comments. “Hands down one of the greatest high school football games I’ve ever witnessed……. Ty touched many lives while down here with us and clearly is still doing his thing!” -Josh Hickey.  “This is huge! Way bigger than sports. Happy for these boys! ” -Tyler Simser.  “Awesome game!!!! A night they will never forget for sure. I am still hyped up They should all be extremely proud of themselves and their determination.” -Jason Myers.

Tyler’s parents, Jason and Samantha Christman, founded the Tyler R. Christman Foundation to preserve Tyler’s memory and to continue his legacy. The foundation’s mission is to support local youth sports and provide academic scholarships to local high school graduates.   This year, the foundation was able to award 20 sports teams and four scholarships.  You may have heard of the “Ride for Ty”. This annual ride is the foundation’s biggest asset. Local businesses and community members rally together to honor Tyler in a way he’d be proud of, rippin’ on four (or two) wheels. Riding around Lewis and Jefferson Counties, family, friends and even strangers collect their stamps at participating businesses, ending the day in great company, live music and great cause.

Although Tyler’s life was short, it was not put to waste. He had an infectious smile and a fearless and shining personality. For being only fourteen, Tyler wore many hats between being a sports enthusiast, race car drive, master of wheelies, trap shooter and an avid outdoorsman. No matter what the sport or hobby, he was always ready to take it on, full force. Tyler loved a lot of things, but nothing compared to the love he had for his family, his friends, his coaches, his teachers, his peers, his supporters, his people. Tyler worked hard at anything he was faced with, and he lived life to it’s fullest putting the meaning behind, Live Like Tyler.  

To donate to the foundation, please visit the Tyler R. Christman Foundation or send your donation via Venmo at @TylerRChristman (The foundation’s logo will be the main picture)

Please consider becoming an organ donor. Register to donate a life, here. Become a hero like Tyler. You too could save a life.