In Memoriam

Tyson Anthony Schembri

May 10, 1984 – June 29, 2023

Tyson was born on May 10, 1984, in Ventura, California to his parents, Thomas Anthony Schembri and Sheila Rae (Gomez) Schembri. Tyson passed away after fighting a brave battle with an aggressive form of leukemia for a full year. He fought with grace, dignity, and utmost determination to the very end, allowing all of us more time with him.

Tyson is survived by his mother, Sheila (Springfield); father, Tom (Springfield); maternal grandmother, Vera Gomez (Springfield); daughter, Bella Rose (Springfield); stepson, Braden (Springfield); two brothers, Thomas (Springfield) and Benjamin (San Diego, CA); and many other family members.

Tyson moved from California to Ozark, MO at the age of eight and attended schools in Ozark. He is described as a free-spirited soul. He worked as a chef in a variety of Springfield restaurants and loved cooking at home and for friends, as well. He was an enthusiastic amateur photographer and found comfort and peace in capturing raw nature on film to express himself.

Tyson was passionate about many things, but it did not take long—when talking with him—for him to change the subject to his beloved daughter, Bella Rose, of whom he was forever proud.

It cannot be overstated that there was a very special place in Tyson's heart for his two dogs, Midas and Athena.

Tyson had developed a unique outlook on life inspired by his own trials and tribulations. He also had a fine love for both art and music but cherished most in life the company of his dear and loyal friends. Tyson recently said his "kindred spirit" was his Grandma Vera as he felt she truly understood him.

Tyson was independent, sensitive, and compassionate—and often strong-willed and stubborn at the same time. He had an enormous heart and wonderful sense of humor. He was generous without fault, loyal, and brave.

The clouds have now lifted and—with them—he, too, has been lifted to a better place. He will be forever missed.

Tyson's family wishes to give deep and special thanks to every one of the staff members who helped Tyson at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO, and at the Research Medical Center, Kansas City. Many grateful thanks are also extended to everyone at the Hope Lodge, St. Louis, MO, for their kind, caring treatment and compassion.

These difficult times do not allow us to physically convene, but a celebration of life will be planned for the future. In the meantime, in lieu of flowers, Tyson's family requests donations be made to the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri, an organization for which he truly cared.