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At a public service on July 5, 2025, in American Fork, Utah, Tanner Martin’s mother, Kimberlee, read a heartfelt message she wrote for him years ago. She explained that after Tanner was diagnosed with colon cancer at age 25, he asked her to share this letter when his time came.
She began the letter with:
“Dear Tanner, I hope you know how much I love you and how pleased I am with who you choose to be. I am blessed and grateful to be your mom … I know I’m the one that is supposed to teach and nurture you, but I truly believe I’ve learned more from you.”
Her simple opening revealed both a mother’s love and a profound respect for the person Tanner Martin had become. The tone was gentle and honest, neither showering excessive praise nor ignoring his special qualities.
Memories of fun moments showed Tanner’s kindness
In her message, Kimberlee recalled moments that helped shape both of them. She spoke of moving with Tanner Martin to Taiwan when he was six and of their special ski trips, just the two of them.
She noted,
"We talked about everything from music to silly movies to girls and friends and the gospel. Thank you so much for being so willing to hang out with me.”
She highlighted his kindness:
“You have this incredible ability to love and be kind to all. You choose to be this way.”
His openness helped many understand colon cancer
Kimberlee praised Tanner Martin and his wife, Shay, for sharing their cancer journey online, noting the real-life impact this honesty had on others.
She said, “You and Shay and your willingness to be vulnerable and share your story on social media is impacting lives and inspiring the world.”
She revealed that people reached out to thank Tanner because they recognized colon cancer symptoms early, thanks to his story. Her words were calm and factual, underlining how Tanner’s journey saved or helped others.
Welcoming AmyLou brought hope at the end
Just weeks before his public farewell, Tanner Martin and Shay welcomed a daughter, AmyLou, on May 15, 2025. Kimberlee called this new life:
“such a miracle and blessing to all of us.”
His faith shone steadily through his challenges
Kimberlee described Tanner Martin as a “son of God” and a “true disciple of our savior Jesus Christ,” noting how central faith was to his life. She said he was always ready to share his beliefs, even as a child learning about different religions.
His father, Thomas, also shared light moments, describing how Tanner sang “The Imperial March” from Star Wars at age two, and believed he could change traffic lights with “the force”. These stories showed a smiling, thoughtful boy who grew into a man of faith and humor.
Tanner Martin's farewell set a thoughtful tone
Ten days before the funeral, on June 25, Tanner posted a pre-recorded video saying plainly.
“Hey, it’s me, Tanner. If you are watching this, I am dead.”
He thanked his followers and asked for prayers for Shay and baby AmyLou. He spoke honestly about leaving his body behind and suggested death might be “a new adventure.” His words were clear and calm, not dramatic, but full of thoughtfulness and hope.
A legacy marked by honesty, kindness, and family
Together, Tanner’s own words and his mother’s letter created a picture of a man who valued truth, connection, and faith. He shared his struggles openly online, supported his wife and newborn, and helped others learn how to spot cancer early.
Kimberlee's letter reinforced how proud she was, not by calling him “perfect,” but by recognizing his kind choices and his ability to give, even while he was fighting for his life.
On July 8, 2025, memories of Tanner Martin include not only a young man who faced terminal illness bravely, but also a father, husband, son, and friend. Tanner Martin was someone who chose kindness every day, welcomed a new life even with limited time, and left words of hope behind.
The values are clear: listen, share what matters, and live with kindness and purpose.
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