Tyson Jerry Schiff

During the night of November 6, 2021, our husband, son, and friend passed away after a valiant, 29-year fight against the challenges of functioning as a quadriplegic. Tyson grew up in Millcreek attending elementary and junior high in the Granite School District, eventually graduating from Granite High. His attention to studies was often distracted by his love of the outdoors, boating, fishing, and hunting in the fall with his brother, Troy, and his parents, Jerry and Sherrie Schiff. His weekend activities focused on attention to the care and maintenance of the fishing boat, and the beloved 1966 Ford Bronco used to traverse the mountains of Fairview Canyon to hunt the deer and elk herds.

After graduating from Granite High and while enrolled at the University of Utah, he was involved in a tragic diving accident in the swimming pool at the Bay nightclub. This left him paralyzed from his chest down, with only limited use of his arms and hands. During his recovery and rehabilitation, he met Lisa Linam, an occupational therapist, who assisted in his recovery and became a supportive friend. They eventually married, in 1996, as their friendship grew stronger.

After recovering some limited abilities, Tyson enrolled again at the University of Utah. With the help of his childhood friend, Don Anderson, and cooperation from the U of U College of Business he was able to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management.

Rather than seek compensation for his disability, Tyson entered the work force and eventually achieved a nearly 20-year career with the investment advisory and banking groups of Wells Fargo Bank. He was able to drive to work in a van equipped to handle his limited abilities. He achieved laudable success which enabled his promotion to leadership and management positions.

Even as his abilities decreased, he was able to work until a few weeks before his passing. He prided himself with his ability to “show up” and be at his desk when co-workers with more robust health would call in sick or with other issues. He was a positive example to his co-workers and colleagues, and many sought both his professional and personal advice. He could not have accomplished this without the love and dedication of his life-long companion, Lisa, who helped him perform the activities of daily living that enabled Tyson to function and excel despite his challenges.

Tyson and Lisa loved the mountains and were able to travel throughout Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, California, and Oregon to experience the outdoors, spot the wildlife, and enjoy a few pints at the local brewpubs/sports bars along the way. The Nevada casinos also benefitted from their time, money, and sporadic luck. Family and friends were visited along the way, with end points in Lisa’s hometown, Pueblo, CO, and visits with her parents, Jay and Betty Linam. All travel was done in the trusty, handicap-equipped van with Tyson at the wheel and Lisa attending to his needs.

Jim and Elaine Wightman were often travel companions on these trips and cherish the great memories created along the way. Trips to Las Vegas, Scottsdale, Palm Desert and Klamath Falls were memorable and usually highlighted by attending or finding a local sports bar to watch the Utah Utes play football. Another favorite was Wyoming Downs Racetrack and betting on the ponies. Tyson was a life-long fan of Ute football, Real soccer, and Utah Jazz basketball. He followed most sports closely year-round.

Tyson loved weekly gatherings with his friends and colleagues from Wells Fargo. Legends Sports Bar & Grill was the host of these events over several decades, along with the Poplar Pub. These gatherings helped cement not only memories, but friendships that will endure long after.

Tyson is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa, his parents, Jerry and Sherrie Schiff, his brother, Troy Schiff and wife, Sarah, nieces and nephews, his father-in-law, Jay Linam, and his much-loved dog, Willough. He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Betty Linam, and grandparents.

There will be no formal services. A Celebration of Life is planned in the coming days for family and friends.