I can't accurately remember the first time I met him, but I'm pretty sure one of the initial things that stood out to me was his voice. That voice that made me think, "He should be an announcer for something." Sure enough, he later became a news broadcaster for radio. Another thing was how much of a nerd he was... which I felt was relatable. I remember developing with him the idea of doing a huge map of Middle Earth on a flexible canvas that could be mounted on a wall, and then taken down when moving. He introduced me to the wonderful YouTube video of Saruman trolling among others. Priceless. It took me a while to figure out the pronunciation of his last name... Mayle. Was it like Maylay? Maylee? Oh wait, it's like mail. Today while applying for a passport at a postal office, I couldn't stop thinking of him... because of the mail.
Some of the bigger and probably more meaningful impressions however are a result of his special character and spirit. I will never forget the emotion and spirit felt during his talk in church on Mother's Day. The way he talked about his parents' faith, particularly his mother's was very touching. Love, gratitude, respect and admiration were all qualities expressed through his words.
His love of music is both admirable and memorable. He was dedicated and always willing to fulfill his calling in church as music co-chair. He played the piano and from what I hear was a great band member as a french horn player. His music collection included many soundtrack to movies, even movies he had never seen.
He had recently bought a red convertible Mustang which he loved. He had plans to make it into his personal expression of American Patriotism which possibly included a big USA flag on the roof and special plates. His patriotism extended even to Apples to Apples where any card having to do with America could automatically be considered a winner. Either that or Helen Keller.
My last interactions with Tyler were the planning of a BBQ up in Provo Canyon simply for fun and leisure with friends. I had expressed a desire to have said BBQ during a meeting and soon after it ended he came up and said he volunteered to help me plan it. I was happy and grateful for his willingness to help. He looked forward to making his jalapeño dogs (or something along the lines) and I was curious to try them. We each expressed our excitement for these plans particularly because of the opportunity to be out in nature and the beautiful scenery of our planned location.
I won't pretend that we had a very close friendship, but he was a friend nonetheless and he definitely made an impact on me and with many people in our Provo YSA Ward. The outpouring of prayers, love, and tears throughout the last few days and last hours is proof of that.
I'm confident he is now making an impact in a different place and with different souls. My heart breaks for his family since his love for them and vice versa was very evident. Any separation from someone with such a strong bond can only be difficult. He will be missed during his absence but the difference he made with us during his life here on Earth will be remembered. That along with the knowledge of a future joyous reunion brings great comfort.
Rest in Peace Tyler Mayle, and farewell... till we meet again.
