January 24, 1970 - September 1, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
Tyson had his own star that he took his bearings from. Let that star be his guide now. Tyson left this world all too soon leaving behind a comet trail of dynamic energy, zest for life, and remarkable accomplishments.
Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, Tyson's life was enriched by living in diverse communities including: Moose Jaw, Prince George, Haida Gwaii (Q.C.Is.), Smithers, Mission, Maple Ridge and Vancouver.
Tyson, 53, died unexpectedly in Vancouver, B.C. He will be dearly missed by his loving parents Brenda and Forbes of Maple Ridge, whose lives were enriched immeasurably by having raised him. Left to mourn are his devoted long-time partner Jeanette, many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins throughout Western Canada and Thailand.
Graduating from Smithers Secondary School, his career in construction and painting took him to southern BC. Known for his exceptional athletic prowess, Tyson excelled as an individual athlete. He made a million memories with the Smithers Alpine Ski Team, Motocross Club and as a proud founding member of the Smithers BMX Club.
He raced down mountainsides at speeds he would be ticketed for if he was a car, sprinted to hundreds of BMX bicycle finish lines to earn provincial and national titles, and bolted off the start lines of every motocross track in BC to victory as BC Provincial Motocross Champion.
During his racing careers, he won more trophies and medals than most can dream of. Motocross racing was the love of his life. Legendary for his phenomenal strength, he exhibited grit and determination in boxing, wrestling, weightlifting and arm wrestling. Tyson played to win.
Tyson was gifted with a gentler side. His creative and artistic talents kept him at his drawing board winning top art student for many years in a row. He designed and created one-of-a-kind silk-screen printed T-shirts.
Always concerned for the welfare of animals and birds, he was passionate about his treasured cats and his adopted feathered friends, Nucumb his pet seagull and his famous lunch buddy Canuck the Crow. Bird whisperer was his second calling.
Tyson's magnetic personality was contagious to everyone he met. He had an uncanny ability to bring people out, engage them with his infectious energy and win them over. He gave generously to those in need.
Tyson has joined the star that he took his bearings from, released from the challenges this life presented to him. As an old soul, Tyson's out there driving his favourite vintage Cadillac riding throughout the cosmos with the top down, enjoying every breeze.
A private Celebration of Life was held with interment at Maple Ridge Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, please consider a charitable donation to the Tyson Finlayson Memorial Page at St. Paul's Foundation of Vancouver in support of St. Paul's Hospital Road to Recovery Initiative at:
donate.helpstpauls.com/goto/TysonFinlayson
Oil painting and photo by Forbes Finlayson