Bakersfield, Calif.
Tyler Carlos Salsbury passed away in Bakersfield, Calif., in October of 2021.
He was born Tyler Austin Ward to Chanin Hale and Robert Ward in Philadelphia, Pa., on July 25, 1991. In his early years, he lived with his mother as well as with his grandparents Jurg and Barbara Oppliger in southern Maine. He was later cared for by foster parents Kimberlyn and Austin Griffin.
In 2000, Tyler moved to Ellsworth to live with the Salsbury family and the next year Stephen and Lisa Salsbury finalized their adoption of Tyler. He embraced his new life and spent his school years in Ellsworth, making many friends. Tyler loved sports and was especially talented in baseball, playing many positions. His favorite was pitcher. He loved reading and writing his own stories and had a wonderful imagination.
After leaving school, Tyler spent time in Florida and then lived for several years in the Boston area, working at several prominent restaurants and hotels as a bartender. He was active in arts and music and worked to plan and organize music events.
He moved to Los Angeles, Calif., where he also worked bartending and organizing events. He loved the arts and music and enjoyed spending time with his many friends. He was a very social person and loved meeting new people. He loved the outdoors and frequently hiked and camped, wherever he lived. He loved life and having new experiences. He was passionate about everything he did.
Toward the end of his life, Tyler struggled with drug addiction and mental health issues. He lost that battle to an overdose.
Tyler was loved by many people, including his two families. He is missed by his adopted family: parents Stephen and Lisa Salsbury; sibling Mel Salsbury; grandparents Richard and Virginia Salsbury and Gayle Hewey; aunts Brooke Abbott and Stacey Salsbury and cousin Jacob Austin.
He was predeceased by his birth father, Robert Ward, and is survived by his birth family: mother Chanin Hale; siblings Victoria, Alex, LauraLee and Maddie; grandparents Jurg and Barbara Oppliger and Robert and Paulette Ward; aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. He touched many lives and is remembered by the many friends he made over the years.
The Salsbury family will have a private memorial service. Those who wish may make donations in his memory to the charity of their choice.