Tanner Pexton Obituary (2015)

Obituary for Tanner James Pexton Tanner James Pexton, 21, left us unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 3, 2015. His death appears to have been caused by an accidental overdose. Tanner was born on September 27, 1994, in Payson, Utah. He came into the world on his own terms, 3 weeks early and a bit precocious. His parents, Chad and Michelle appreciated his patience as they figured out how raise a baby while going to school in Provo, Utah. As a child, growing up in Sandy, Utah, Tanner felt compelled to do things his own way. His active and capable mind was filled with ideas and books were some of his greatest friends. He loved to learn and graduated from Alta High School and was attending Salt Lake Community College while he worked for Sprint in Retail Sales. Tanner was blessed with the gift of charity and an ability to see the good in others, which allowed him to develop many meaningful relationships with people from all walks of life. He was a tall and broad shouldered man, and most who knew him will fondly remember his enthusiastic greetings that came with a toothy smile and a bear hug. Tanner was an artist and a creator of beautiful things. While he was a capable musician, vocalist, graphic artist, and DJ, photography was his medium of choice and his most expressive creative context. We continue to stand in awe of the images he created and the emotions, both subtle and profound that they evoke in us. Tanner loved life, had great plans for his future, did not want to die and was an inspiration to many who struggle with addiction as he battled his demons and entered into an 18 month period of sobriety. Tragically, addiction is an evil disease, which, at its core, removes the free will of the magnificent people in our lives. Chad and Michelle’s beautiful boy left this world too soon and we are left with memories that illicit both tears and smiles. His parents have loved Tanner through every moment of his life and love him still. He is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and his family holds closely to their hearts the comforting doctrine of Eternal Families and the promise that we can live together again. He is survived by his parents, Chad and Michelle Pexton, his brother Zachary and his sisters Sydney and Lynsey. Additionally, his grandparents, Dick and Donna Pexton, Larry and Sandra Krieger and rooms full of aunts, uncles and cousins will miss him deeply. Tanner’s dog, Dexter is wondering where is wrestling buddy has gone. Funeral Services will be held on Monday, November 9th at 11 am at the Sandy Crescent Chapel on 17th East and 10980 South in Sandy, UT. Two viewings will be held at the same location. The first on Sunday night, November 8th from 6-8pm and the second to precede the funeral from 9:30 to 10:40 am. Tanner’s interment will take place at the Salt Lake City Cemetery after the funeral. It is a beautiful place where Tanner’s body will rest next to his Uncle, Great Grandparents and other family members. Tanner’s friends have established a GoFundMe site that can be found at the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/tannerpexton