Tanner F. SCHOONMAKER 1992 - 2016 SHS 2010

Tanner F. Schoonmaker, 24, of Sheridan, passed away Sunday, October 2, 2016 at his residence.

He was born February 12, 1992 in Fort Collins, CO to Peter and Janice (Larsen) Schoonmaker.

Tanner had a brilliant and curious mind that took him to the depths of the sea to the tops of the mountains, and everything in between. He lived his life with a full throttle, all or nothing mentality. When he climbed, he climbed high. When he rode, he rode fast. When he loved, he loved big. T anner could never get enough information. He was dubbed "Q.B" (Question Boy) at an early age as he asked more questions than we had answers for. He kept his parents (and teachers and coaches) on their toes as he continuously pushed limits and never stopped searching for answers.

Tanner's first best friend was his little sister, Rainey. While they behaved as typical siblings there was no doubt that they adored each other to no end. Rainey meant so much to him, as he did to her. There were many things they loved to do together, including boating, skiing, snowboarding, climbing, and much more. "Tanfleeban" was a good big brother. He and Rainey had a very special bond; from siblings to best friends to protectors of each other's hearts. When Tanner needed her most, Rainey was always there for him.

Tanner was loved by everyone he encountered, including his dogs. His bright smile was contagious and his energy, infectious. When he talked to you about some adventure he was planning, it was difficult not to want to join him. He had such a way with him that everything he did, you'd want to do with him. He was alluring and inviting every time he spoke. Tanner's hugs were the kind of hugs you couldn't forget, the kind that left you feeling safe and warm. His love radiated off of him and it was impossible to not love him back. Being wrapped in Tanner's strong and loving arms was one of the best places to be.

While he exceled at everything he did, his first true love was wrestling. He stepped on the mat with the same exuberance that carried him through life. Along with wrestling, he always had a heart for anything with wheels, especially if it had a motor. The faster and higher he could go, the better. He began swimming in high school and it quickly turned into a passion. He enjoyed all aspects, especially his teammates and friends. Tanner loved everything about the outdoors. He was working on acquiring his pilot's license and was truly in his element while boating, fishing, hunting, and climbing. Climbing became Tanner's obsession. It made him feel one with nature and fully alive. He was always seeking the next peek and had his heart set on his next climb.

Tanner was survived by his parents Pete and Janice Schoonmaker; Sister Rainey Schoonmaker; Grandmother Lorraine Larsen; Aunts and uncles, Lisa Herron, Lori (Rob) Kindle, Richard (Sandy) Larsen, Keith (Leslie) Larsen, Mark (Ricci) Larsen, Shauna (Paul) Roberts, Denica McCann, and Annie Schoonmaker; and many cousins, second cousins, friends, and his beloved dogs, Charlie and Tizzy.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, John L "Jack" Larsen, Fred W. Schoonmaker, and Barbara K. Schoonmaker; and cousins, Brooke Herron and Nicci Herron.

Tanner will be missed immensely. His presence on this earth was bright and joyous, to say the least. The void he left will never be filled, but the love he gave us throughout the years will carry us through, along with the wonderful memories. Keep Tanner in your hearts as you reach the next peek in your life and always remember that the best view comes after the hardest climb.

A Celebration of Tanner's Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 7, 2016 with a visitation one hour prior to the service at Champion Funeral Home.

To honor Tanner and his passion for climbing, please make donations to Bighorn Climber's Coalition in lieu of flowers. Donations may be made through the website at: www.bighornclimbers.org.

Online condolences may be written at www.championfh.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Champion Funeral Home.

SheridanMedia.com - Oct. 6, 2016.