Tanner Lee Martin, 30, of Provo, Utah, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025, after a four-year battle with stage 4 colon cancer. Diagnosed at just 25, Tanner faced the disease with extraordinary strength and openness, sharing his journey with the world in hopes of helping others.
Throughout his fight, Tanner underwent more than 50 rounds of chemotherapy, multiple surgeries, and over 100 emergency room visits. Despite the exhausting treatments and setbacks, he remained focused on living meaningfully with his wife, Shay, by his side.
In May 2025, just weeks before his passing, Tanner and Shay hosted a “living funeral” attended by over 200 friends and family members at a local movie theater. It was a rare and deeply emotional moment where Tanner was able to hear, firsthand, the impact he had on so many lives.
Their journey through illness also brought new life. After pursuing IVF, the couple welcomed their daughter, AmyLou, on May 15, 2025. Tanner was able to spend precious time with her before his passing, holding her in his arms and savoring the moments of joy amidst grief.
Even during his most difficult days, Tanner pursued his education, completing a bachelor of arts degree despite the physical toll of his illness. Unable to type due to chemotherapy’s effects, he received support from his professors, who hand-delivered his diploma during a hospital stay.
Tanner and Shay chronicled their experience on social media, becoming advocates for early-onset and colorectal cancer awareness. Their story resonated with thousands, contributing to a wider movement of young cancer patients openly navigating life, love, and loss.
He is survived by his wife Shay, infant daughter AmyLou, his parents, grandparents—including his grandfather from the Catawba Nation—extended family, and a large community of friends and followers who drew strength and inspiration from his story.
Tanner Lee Martin will be remembered for his unwavering spirit, deep love for his family, and his commitment to living fully in the face of terminal illness. His legacy endures in the lives he touched and the awareness he brought to a disease that affects so many young adults.