Obituary published on Legacy.com by Pitman Funeral Homes & Cremation Services - Wentzville Chapel on Feb. 6, 2025.
Tyler "T.J." John Bausch passed away on February 4, 2025 at the age of 21. Tyler was a bright and driven young man who brought laughter, warmth, and love to everyone he met. He had an infectious sense of humor and thoroughly enjoyed teasing those closest to him, especially his siblings. Whether calling his sister Abby "fat" in jest or affectionately referring to Savannah as "Monkey," his joking was always rooted in love.
A proud member of the National Guard, Tyler carried his strong work ethic into all aspects of his life. He graduated from Holt High School in 2022, earning Summa Cum Laude honors and ranking in the top 10% of his class. He was a dedicated member of the National Honor Society, the German National Honor Society, and the cross-country team for four years. His passion for running extended beyond high school as he loved competing in races, particularly trail runs, and never missed the chance to remind his mom that she was a slower runner than him.
Tyler was pursuing a double major in electrical engineering and physics through dual enrollment at Missouri State University and Missouri S&T. His sharp mind and meticulous planning is also seen as he had already devised a retirement plan for himself by age 18 and diligently contributed to his IRA with the clear goal to retire around 45.
A lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, Tyler especially admired Matt Holliday. He had a deep love for gaming, immersing himself in titles such as Assassin's Creed, Marvel Rivals, Super Smash Bros., and Rainbow 6 Siege. His passion for entertainment extended to his love of Scooby-Doo, Venom, and movies like Real Steel. He was a Ravenclaw at heart and had been in the process of rewatching the Harry Potter series with his best friend, Brendan, and his sister, Abby.
Tyler found joy in outdoor adventures, from camping and kayaking to hiking and biking. In his youth, he played football and baseball and spent many years on the LSL Swim and Ski Team, participating in knee boarding, wakeboarding, slalom, and even Junior Men's Line, and Jump. More recently, he had taken part in NASA's Plant the Moon Challenge alongside his former coworker and MSU peer, Austin Brown.
Tyler had a servant's heart and a deep faith. He was an active member of Wentzville Christian Church, where he served on the High School Worship Team for multiple years, attended mission trips, and participated in summer drama camp performances. He was always willing to lend a hand wherever needed, showing his love for others and God.
Though his time was far too short, Tyler lived life to the fullest, bringing joy, laughter, and an unwavering determination to every pursuit. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His memory will live on in the countless hearts he brightened and the many adventures he left behind.
He is survived by his parents,William "Bill" Bausch, Jr. and Heather Bausch (nee Austin); maternal grandmother, Lisa Austin; paternal grandmother, Karen (Steve) Doerle; paternal grandfather, William (Tamie) Bausch; brother, Brendan (Julia) Bausch; two sisters, Abigail and Savannah Bausch; four aunts and uncles, Tanya Bausch, John Jaycox, Dustin (Jonelle) Bausch, and Bobbi Austin; great aunt and uncle, Conni (Denny) Hudson; cousins, Hannah, Ben, Emma, Kylie, Devyn, Kayson, and Acelynn; He is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, David Austin.
Memorial donations may be made to:
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (afsp.org) ATTN: Michael Swyer 199 Water Street, 11th Floor, New York NY 10038
The family is being served by Pitman Funeral Home, Wentzville
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