This is from a friend in Durango. My name is Leo Lloyd. I had the honor of knowing Scott for the past three years. During this time I have had the privlege of working with him as a fellow paramedic, spending quality time with him climbing, skiing and many other outdoor activities he so much enjoyed. Watching his joy as he and Elizabeth received their gift from God in Dylan, so many more memories...This is such a very very difficult time for all of us. I don't understand why these terrible things have to happen. I do know one thing however, and that is I am truely blessed to have had such a friend. Remembering the essence of Scott's compassionate and caring spirit, his laugh, his love of his family, and his love for living life to the very fullest is and will continue to be a strength to me, his friends, and his family.
"To have a good friend is one of the highest delights of life; to be a good friend is one of the noblest and most difficult undertakings." Anon.
Scott achieved this and more with everyone he came in contact with. I thank God for my short time with him. May God give Elizabeth, his family and friends the strength to carry on the extraordinary legacy that Scott has left us. Sincerely, Leo Lloyd
This is Fred Hutt from Durango. I am a member of our county SAR team and have known him for as long as he has been a member, which is about as long as he has lived here.
The loss of Scott has been very difficult because it seems there could be no better match for a person, and for his mission in life. Scott was so dedicated and so professional in his career and I find at least a little solice knowing that he was lost doing what he loved, and what he was absolutely meant to do.
My deepest regret is that I did not spend enough time with Scott before he left. Folks get busy and sometimes we fail to spend time with the people whose company we enjoy. I always knew that someday soon we would have some grand adventures together, but now that will have to wait.
I will miss you Scott. My deepest heartfelt wishes will be with your loved ones you left behind.
The Westlund Family of Denver, Colorado wishes to send our deepest sympathies to Dave and Mary Sue, Elizabeth, Dylan, Rob and Laura Hyslop on this tragic loss. We have known Scott since he was a young boy and have watched him grow to be an amazing man, dedicated son, brother, husband and father, and someone who always gave of himself to others. The fact that he died in an act intended to help another is yet another testimony to his giving nature. Scott will be missed. We send our love and deepest sympathy to all of his family and to the community of Durango, which he and Elizabeth chose to be their home. The Westlunds Mark, Debbie, Ben, Kate, Matt and Abby
Whenever Scott was around I knew I was in for a good time. The room was a better place when he walked in. He was always ready to go. He just wanted to get out there and live. We can all learn from that. He was the kind of friend I could count on to help me feel good about myself. I can't believe he is gone. I can't believe Dylan will never know him or learn from him the way he should. Scott was so excited to teach him to ski. My heart goes out to all of you, his family, and his friends. We will all miss him. I can still hear him laughing...and so can you.
This is from Mike Ceilley...Elizabeth's brother and Scott's brother-in-law. I'd like to thank everyone at Tri-State, the Durango Fire Department, Search and Rescue collegues, Mercy Medical Center staff/friends, and the entire community in Durango for their overwhelming support of our family. At this most difficult time, the outpouring of support has been truly humbling.
I pray that everyone in Durango will continue to support my sister, Elizabeth, as she finds a way to cope with this tragedy and raise their son Dylan. Additionally, I pray the community will offer the same level of support for the friends and families of the others involved in this horrible loss.
Thanks to everyone who has and will continue helping our family as we struggle to move forward. We truly appreciate all the thoughts and prayers.
I am writing these words about one courageous and adventurous man who, in the short time I was friends with him, inspired my life in many ways. Scott and I had a relationship which began because we both enjoyed helping others in their times of need. As we figured out spending time on the job, we had much more in common. We were driven by many of the same personal attributes. We learned from each other, both in success and in failure. We laughed about many of the same things together. Most of all, we both enjoyed pursuing the perfect powder turn, the perfect single track trail, and the perfect vista at the top of a mountain. I truly cherished my time with him as I know he made me a better person and helped me formulate my life’s goals and pursuits. I celebrate the wonderful life he had and I am grateful for knowing him. My most sincere thoughts of sympathy go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. Scott’s loving spirit will live forever in all of us. -Dan
My name is Debbie and I was dispatching in the Cortez Comm Center when the helicopter went down. I want to send my sincerest sympathy to the families and friends and coworkers of the Careflight Company. All of the EMS people in Montezuma County weep with you over your loss. May God hold you in His mighty hands as you try to pick up the pieces and go on.
There are many ideals that I would proclaim to believe in, but often struggle to live by ...to be giving, no matter where you are or whom you’re with, knowing that real joy and happiness comes only with serving ...to see and support the goodness in all people, and to encourage them where they’re not so strong, ...to approach every situation with a can-do, solution oriented attitude, ...to get back up again, ...to be filled with imaginings of great things that could be, to not be encumbered with worries of what might go wrong, ...to be emboldened by adversity ...to appreciate, profoundly and spiritually, the places and people and experiences around you, to go after those experiences with enthusiasm and gusto, and to pack the day with as many of them as possible (and by “the day” meaning THIS day, not SOME day)
Scott EMBODIED and LIVED these ideals, cared passionately about the truth within them, and thus figured out how to overcome the obstacles (which are so familiar) to living that life. He has always been and will continue to be great a inspiration, whenever I think of Scott I feel kicked-in-the-butt, encouraged to live better and fuller.
I personally feel devastatingly sad in losing him, I feel even greater sadness for Elizabeth and Dylan (who, as my wife Stacey so rightly says: “had hit the Dad Jackpot”) and for Scott’s family and friends. I also feel profoundly sad for all the people who won’t run into Scott, even if briefly, and be influenced and lifted by his spirit.
With deep, sincere gratitude and love, Richard Brown Malden, Massachusetts
It is both heartbreaking and comforting to read these memories and comments from everyone. We are friends of Scott and Elizabeth's from Boston -- we feel so far away right now and we are grateful to Dan for creating this website as it gives us some way to connect with everyone until we're able to be there in person.
Scott died in such a heroic way, but his way of living was heroic, too. Richard and I joke about living in what Elizabeth calls "Scott time" where you can sleep in late, have a fabulous huge breakfast, go bike riding, kayaking and grab an afternoon nap before you go for a hike and cook a long delicious dinner...all in one day! There is no question that Scott lived every moment to it's fullest. He quite simply loved life.
Scott greeted every relationship with friendliness, enthusiasm and warmth. He was very kind and very happy and I don't think there was a person who met him who wasn't affected by him in a positive way. He loved Elizabeth fully and the abundance of love he had for Dylan seemed to tickle even himself. His joy at being Dylan's father seemed like it could have toppled him over at times. It touched me deeply to be with the Hyslops in Bar Harbor and to see Scott's excitement at showing all his favorite places to Dylan for the first time.
I have so many fond memories, but really when I think of Scott his vivaciousness, his exuberance, his passion for adventure, his thirst for life, his love for Elizabeth and Dylan and for his family and friends, and his kindness to everyone...these are what I think of when I think of Scott.
I will always be thinking of Scott's example as I strive to live my life well and to be a great person. I consider it a great honor to call him my friend.
I was fortunate to come into Scott and Elizabeth's family when my mom Margaret married Scott's uncle Paul. Scott is a blessing to everyone who came in contact with him. Our prayers and thoughts from across the country are with Scott and Elizabeth's families. You don't have to look far to see what an impact Scott and his flight team made every day for others...
From Amy Mantineo: I met Scott a little over two years ago and liked him immediately. As I got to know him I liked him more and more each time we hung out. He remained a good friend when we were expecting our baby even though it was hard on him and Elizabeth. When they had Dylan brought into their lives we were so happy for them and were thrilled to see both Elizabeth and Scott so happy. I talked to Scott they day after he brought Dylan home from the hospital and he was so very excited! It was so wonderful! It makes me so sad to know that Scott will not be here on earth to let his little boy get to know him and see what a wonderful human being he was. But I know that through all of Scott's family and friends he will know that his dad was a great father,husband, friend, and a hero. And I believe that Scott will be with Dylan and Elizabeth every day of their lives. The thing that is so hard about life is we all get so busy and don't always get as much time with friends as we would like. Dan, Scott, Elizabeth and I had talked many times about going camping with our sons together, or just getting together more often and it was just so hard to find the time. I am so sorry now that we did not make it happen. Life is so short. Although this is such a hard time for so many of us I take some peace knowing that Scott died doing what he loved. I know from his own mouth that he loved his wife, his son, and his life and he was a very happy man who lived his life to the fullest. We should all learn from that. I hope that Elizabeth knows how many people here in Durango are thinking of her and praying for her and are here to help her in any way that she needs. I also hope that as time goes by that she finds the strength to go on by loving that little boy that her and Scott wanted so badly. I can't help but wonder if Dylan was brought into this world so that Elizabeth would have him to help her find her strength to go on. Scott will be so dearly missed by so many and we are so sad to say goodbye to him. Again, our thoughts and prayers are with Elizabeth, Dylan, and all of Scott's family and friends.
I have known Scott for over 2 years and we instantly became friends while out training with Search and Rescue. We were both big Red Sox fans as he spent time in Boston and that is where i grew up. I have so many memories with Scott such as watching Game 4 of the world series with him, talking with him hours before they got the call about recieving Dylan, and the few skiing and hiking days that we had due to our schedule conflicts.
Our running joke was always about how we never got to spend nearly as much time as we wanted to together and that either I needed to become a paramedic or he needed to become a 40 hour a week computer geek. There were so many trips that we talked about doing such as the CDT, Vestal and Arrow, Pigeon and Turret, and many more. On a drive today to Silverton I looked off to the right at Pigeon and Turret and thought how great it would be to have stood up there with him and now I will never get the chance. As I am still wiping away tears from my eyes at missed oppurtunites and memories I am trying to reason with what happened and still can't come to terms with it. I have thought about what Scott was as a person and how he had affected my life.
With my son just a few months ahead of his we could not wait to take them on skiing trips, hiking trips and even talked about teaching them pick offs. We talked about if we would coach soccer and how much fun it was going to be raising them together.
I miss him so much already and this is going to be so tough for all of us to grasp and accept for some time to come.
Scott was a part of so many lives in his new community in Southwest Colorado. My wife Robin and I moved to the area soon after Scott and Elizabeth. I will personalize how Scott affected our lives by sharing my experiences with him.
Scott was the only friend who ventured into the mountains near my house in Mancos to explore some heavily vegetated, unclimbed cliffs with potential for good rock climbing. He had a spirit of adventure. He even rappelled down the rock with a chain saw just in case we needed it to get through the thick brush at the bottom. We laughed as we contorted our bodies through the thick, thorny bushes. We laughed even more when we saw how much more adept his dogs, Trango and Logan, who were at this task. Despite our best efforts, we never ascended a contiguous route up the cliff, but we got to know each other well being in the mountains together.
Scott and I were essentially the same age. We were going through similar issues in our lives and had similar career and personal interests: medicine, mountain rescue, living in the mountains away from town, backcountry skiing, and climbing mountains. We were also each married to a very smart lady physician. He shared with me his thoughts on potentially becoming a father a year before they took Dylan home. He demonstrated a commitment to being a good husband and supporting his wife in their transition to parenthood. I was fortunate that we spent a day together on a search mission in the mountains last fall. Most of our search groups were larger, but it worked out that just Scott and I paired up for the day. While being focused on finding the lost hunter, we were able to bond as friends do.
From where I write now at my home, I can see the beautiful forest between Red Arrow Dome and Helmet Peak. This is a place I have found beauty during all the seasons. It is a place that Scott would have appreciated if we had gone there together. This is the place where Scott had his last adventure, doing the work he enjoyed so much. Scott’s death was tragic and premature. I hope we can feel some comfort that he found a career which brought him joy by being able to help people with his skills as a paramedic while soaring above the mountains he loved.
Elizabeth, family, and friends have been blessed by having Scott with us.
Chad Page Emergency Physician Search & Rescue volunteer
When I got into work this morning I arrived at a very shocked and subdued garage. It only took a few minutes to find out why...
I first met Scott when I joined Fallon Ambulance (MA) as a brand new Paramedic. As a third-rider and green medic I was on the lookout for a mentor, and Scott fit the bill perfectly. Scott was not only skilled in medicine, but had an amazing skill with the interpersonal aspect of our work as well. I considered Scott a friend and always looked forward to working with him. The sadness I felt when he moved West is now eclipsed by the sorrow of his death.
Elizabeth, Dylan & family... please know that you are all in my thoughts and my heart aches along with you.
Scott, I will continue to strive to be the Paramedic (and person) you were. We are all better for having known you.
May you all find the peace, someday, which Scott would wish for you.
There is such an enormous hole in the hearts of all of us lucky enough to have known Scott. We have known Scott and his family since he was very young...and his extraordinary attitude toward his own health challenges has always been an inspiration to us. His remarkable sense of adventure set quite a pace for all of us. We'll always see Scott as a gentle giant, a lover of animals (particularly big dogs!), a lover of life. What a legacy Scott leaves. What a gift he has left us all. May God hold Scott's family in the palm of His hand. Sara, Harry, Adam and Eileen
I met Scott through La Plata County SAR and Durango Fire & Rescue when he first moved here. Like Scott, I was new to the area and was eager to explore all the wonderful things this place offers. Scott's enthusiasm for the outdoors was contagious, but so was his enthusiasm for his profession and helping others. People like Scott are what this world needs more of and it's very sad he was taken away so soon. My heart and prayers go out to his wife and family. I hope you will be able to find peace in Scott's passing and that you'll have a lifetime of warm remembrances of him.
I was so sorry to hear of this tragic loss. I only knew Scott for a short while. But I could not help being impressed by him. I especially admired his optimism, even in the face of adversity. He lived life fully - in all the best ways. I know that he was also committed to helping others. He truly had a bright and noble spirit, and he had a big heart. I have been enriched by knowing him.
My deepest sympathy to those who now suffer from his loss.
Scott and Elizabeth were great neighbors in Wilmington,MA. The first time I met Scott he was walking his dog with a cast on his foot. I have such great memories of being Scott and Elizabeth's neighbor and friend.
My heart and thoughts are with Elizabeth and her son. And the Hyslop family.
My heart breaks for Elizabeth and for Dylan, as well as the rest of Scott's family and friends. While I don't know you personally, I know the pain you are going through. I know how overwhelming this thing called grief can be. I wish there were words of comfort I could offer, anything to ease your sorrow and your pain. I hope your family and friends surround you with love and support, but if you ever need someone to vent with, to cry with or just to listen, I "get it" and my door is always open.
I am so sorry Elizabeth that you have to go through this pain.
Hi my name is Nicole de Ruiter and I am the Family Center of Durango Coordinator.Unfortunately I did not know Scott himself. But,Dylan, the little "Model" infant massage baby and Elizabeth came to the newborn Group here at the Family Center for a couple of months before she went back to work. And what an impression they made on me. This wonderful caring mother sat with me on the ground with Dylan in her arms sharing their story of love, wanting a baby and receiving Dylan like a miracle. I would like to let them know that we, as staff and all our moms and dads of the Family center, are here for them, and if there is anything they need, please let us know. Elizabeth and Dylan and ofcourse the whole extended family , you are in our thoughts. Nicole
The Smit Family of Centennial, CO wish to extend their deepest sympathy to Elizabeth and Dylon, Dave and Mary Sue, and to Rob and Laurel. We have been neighbors of the Hyslops for the past 25 years and have had the privilege of watching Scott grow and mature over the years. We know how proud his parents have been of him and the life that he chose. He will be missed. We send our love and sympathy to you all and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers during these difficult times. Pete and Marie
This is Jay Swan from Durango. I knew Scott through search and rescue, but our paths didn't cross often, so I didn't know him well. Just a few weeks ago, however, we had a nice little chat about family life and the joys of fatherhood. Now I will remember that conversation forever. My thoughts and best wishes to his family who he loved so much.
My name is Amy Allen from Durango. I met Scott through the Fire Department and from working in the ER as an RN. I always commented on Scott's superb professionalism, excellent patient care and the essence of calm to a critical patient. It's too bad however I truely never told him... He has left me with this lesson. Not long ago I saw the proud papa with Dylan. When I asked how he and Elizabeth were ajusting to parenthood. Scott did not answer with the typical .... need sleep! He just said Dylan's a talker and he has much to say... "It's great!" Our hearts go out to Elizabeth, Dylan and Family. Peace, Amy, Rod and Morgan Allen
Immortality lies not in the things you leave behind, But in the people your life has touched
As Scott's third grade teacher at Lois Lenski Elementary in Littleton, Colorado, I had the opportunity to be touched deeply by Scott's engaging spirit, love of learning, and respect for his classroom community of learners.
Scott's parents, Mary Sue and Dave, modeled the importance of living life to its fullest. Through experiences with family and friends, Scott shared his appreciation for others, nature, and the world. Thank you all!
My heartfelt thoughts and sympathy go to Scott's family and friends: Mary Sue, Dave, Rob, Elizabeth and Dylan...
I will remember the positive impact that Scott made in our world!
Fondly, Linda Erickson (Krula) and on behalf of his teachers at Lenski Elementary, Littleton, CO
I am Michael Flanagan, and to merely say I knew Scott because I worked with him would be to minimize the importance he played in my life. We did work together, in Boston, and became fast friends on a call. We entered the room where a diabetic patient had become hypoglycemic, and subsequently very confused. The patient repeatedly asked "Why are you here?" What followed was a lengthy discussion between the three of us (before, during and after treating the patient) about why any of us are here. God? Chance? Destiny? I knew I had found someone more than a "partner," I had found a matching soul. Elizabeth and Michelle, my wife, often commented on how frightening it was the way Scott and I could complete each others thoughts. Our conversations reduced practically to knowing grunts and gestures. I have three brothers, and Scott was my fourth. I am sorry I could not find the strength to talk at Scott's memorial this week. What I would have spoken to was Scott's willingness to sacrafice the things he loved for the people he loved. He recently traveled to South American and Mt. Logan both times not reaching the "goal" becasue of weather or caring for his partner. Both times he came back glowing about how successful the trip was, and how happy he was he had gone. I witnessed this several times and heard about it countless others. I know that on a recent bike ride Dylan became uncomfortable, and rather than forging on Scott picked up Dylan and was not going to let him go. He'd walk out if he had to. Scott and I were skiing in Tuckerman's ravine. It was a March day on Mt. Washington that comes about once a decade. We had taken our first run when he noticed Trango had gotten caught and was looking for help. He could have left him there and taken another run. Trango was in no danger (he was scared of the heights he had climbed to). But instead Scott climbed up, and after coaxing didn't get Trango down he carried him down the 50+ degree pitch. Even after that he could have tied Trango up and gotten in a few more runs, only having missed one or two. But Trango was scared, and Scott would not leave his side. He gave up on the rest of the day to sit by Trango's side. In the parking lot at the end of the day Scott had a big smile on his face, and just said, "what a great day." There are a lot of outdoor enthusiasts, only a handfull with Scott's ability to adapt to his surroundings (no skiing here I'll learn to bike, no biking I'll ice climb, etc.) and none who had his genuine willingness to sacrafice without complaint, and with a joy in whatever the final experience provided. My vocabulary is too small, and my eloquence is too weak to descriube the void left in my life, and the pain I feel for Elizabeth and Dylan. The sun will shine brighter, the breeze will blow sweeter, the snow will fall deeper, the mountains will be greener now that Scott has gone to be a part of them.
My name is Randy Black, and I was fortunate enough to know Scott for the last 2-3 years, working directly with him at Durango Fire & Rescue, and also once he joined CareFlight.
To the entire family of Scott and Elizabeth, I would like to send my most heartfelt condolences on your loss. As a friend and co-worker of Scott's, I can only imagine the pain of the loss to his family. The impact he has had on his friends, his community and his places of work (past & present) only go to show how incredible of a person he was. I heard someone say after his ceremony that they felt very inadequate in their life compared to what Scott accomplished in only 33 years. I think that's an understatement. One of the positive aspects to come from this tragedy, is the chance for everyone to try to become a better person. I think everyone who knew Scott, is now trying to have more passion for life, more compassion for others, more love for their spouse and family, and to truly rise to their highest potential.
To Dylan: Since I first heard of this horrible accident, my thoughts went to you. All of the adults around had some sort of relationship with your Dad and had the opportunity to work with him, play with him, and see him at his best (which seemed to be always!). You have been denied an incredible opportunity to know your Dad. I want to try to give you a tiny glimpse into who of your relatives you can relate him to be. -He had the fantastic laugh of your Grandpa David Hyslop. It's the most unique laugh I have ever heard, and it made others laugh just to hear your dad. -He had the compassion for helping others that your Mom has. He dedicated his life to help others, and as someone at his memorial service stated, he trained his whole life to become a Flight Paramedic. The compassion in your family runs very deep. -He had the love of the outdoors of your uncle Rob, and many of your Dad's friends. The outdoors were where he truly lived, and ultimately died. His memorial was held outside in a beautiful meadow on a beautiful day. -Your dad possessed the appreciation and respect of others that your entire family has displayed during this difficult time. Somehow, through their own grief, they have spent an amazing amount of time and effort making sure that everyone else is doing OK, and providing support to us. -As you will read or hear stories of, your Dad was either considered a brother by others, or he considered others his brother. In that term is the special relationship that develops when people meet who would do anything to help the other, provide unlimited support, and a friendship that not even death can change. Your Father was an incredible Paramedic, who had a gift for caring, connecting and communicating with each of his patients. I could probably ramble on forever, trying my best to put down the impossible. There is no way to ever explain to you in words the impact and importance of your father in the lives of everyone he came in contact with. As you grow up, please remember that you were the best thing that ever happened to your parents. Your Dad glowed and bragged at every opportunity, about how wonderful you were, and how much you meant to him. No one can understand why this tragedy has happend. But please understand this: The world is a better place because of him; your family is stronger and more loving because of him; and everyone who ever came in contact with your Dad is a better person for knowing him. May God bless you in your life. Randy Black
scott's obit in des moines register Scott David Hyslop
Scott Hylsop, 33, husband of Elizabeth Ceilley-Hyslop native of West Des Moines died July 1 when a Tri-State CareFlight helicopter crashed near Durango, CO. The flight was attempting to rescue an injured logger in a remote mountain site nearby. Scott was born Sept. 22, 1971 in Denver, the son of David and Mary Sue Hyslop. He married Elizabeth Ceilley on Dec. 28, 1996 in West Des Moines, IA. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ceilley-Hyslop and their son, 5-month-old Dylan Hyslop of Durango, his parents, Mary Sue and David Hyslop of Centennial, CO., his brother and sister-in-law, Rob and Laurel Hyslop of Evergreen, CO., and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. An avid climber, skier, mountain biker and hiker, Scott had a great love of the outdoors. He devoted his life to helping others in times of need and also was an inspiration to those living with cystic fibrosis.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday in a meadow north of Durango near Scott’s home. Durango Herald staff writer, Chuck Slothower, attended and reported the event: “Several of Hyslop’s friends and family members noted his dedication to the pursuit of happiness. ‘His ability to fit as much as possible into one day was nothing short of amazing,’ said Leo Lloyd, a co-worker from Bayfield. ‘Scott chose to be happy.’ Scott became a father five months ago with the adoption of Dylan, his son. He especially enjoyed reading Sports Illustrated to him, a friend said. A shiny Ladder One fire truck decked with American and Colorado flags led the way to the service. Firefighters presented Hyslop’s widow with this helmet. His bright-red flight suit rested on a table. Skeleton crews staffed Durango-area fire stations while dozens of firefighters flocked to the service. Many wore black mourning bands over their badges. ‘I think it’s as close to losing a family member as you’ll ever lose’ Durango Fire & Rescue Authority Chief Mike Dunaway said. ‘You go places other people won’t go. You go in there together, and that’s your brother beside you. To lose those people is hard. It pulls at the heart strings.’ Mourners recounted his fun-loving attitude. ‘Scott was never happier than in the past few years,’ said his brother, Rob Hyslop. His brother-in-law, Mike Ceilley, remembered how he and Hyslop biked down a Hawaiian mountain only to have Hyslop insist on biking uphill to a winery. ‘He didn’t like coasting,’ Ceilley said. ‘He wanted to pedal.’ To close the service, a man played ‘Amazing Grace’ on bagpipes. A firefighter rang a bell nine times to mark Hyslop’s passing: three for an emergency call, three for the response and three for the return to the station.”
A community memorial service was held at noon Wednesday at the Durango High School football field for Scott and the other two victims of the crash. Memorial contributions may be made to the Scott Hyslop Memorial Fund, care of Vectra Bank, 1101 East Second Ave., Durango. Funds will be distributed to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and other causes important to Scott. More information on Scott and his memorial service may be found on the Internet at scotthyslop.blogspot.com and durangoherald.com. Scott David Hyslop
Scott Hylsop, 33, husband of Elizabeth Ceilley-Hyslop native of West Des Moines died July 1 when a Tri-State CareFlight helicopter crashed near Durango, CO. The flight was attempting to rescue an injured logger in a remote mountain site nearby. Scott was born Sept. 22, 1971 in Denver, the son of David and Mary Sue Hyslop. He married Elizabeth Ceilley on Dec. 28, 1996 in West Des Moines, IA. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ceilley-Hyslop and their son, 5-month-old Dylan Hyslop of Durango, his parents, Mary Sue and David Hyslop of Centennial, CO., his brother and sister-in-law, Rob and Laurel Hyslop of Evergreen, CO., and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. An avid climber, skier, mountain biker and hiker, Scott had a great love of the outdoors. He devoted his life to helping others in times of need and also was an inspiration to those living with cystic fibrosis.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday in a meadow north of Durango near Scott’s home. Durango Herald staff writer, Chuck Slothower, attended and reported the event: “Several of Hyslop’s friends and family members noted his dedication to the pursuit of happiness. ‘His ability to fit as much as possible into one day was nothing short of amazing,’ said Leo Lloyd, a co-worker from Bayfield. ‘Scott chose to be happy.’ Scott became a father five months ago with the adoption of Dylan, his son. He especially enjoyed reading Sports Illustrated to him, a friend said. A shiny Ladder One fire truck decked with American and Colorado flags led the way to the service. Firefighters presented Hyslop’s widow with this helmet. His bright-red flight suit rested on a table. Skeleton crews staffed Durango-area fire stations while dozens of firefighters flocked to the service. Many wore black mourning bands over their badges. ‘I think it’s as close to losing a family member as you’ll ever lose’ Durango Fire & Rescue Authority Chief Mike Dunaway said. ‘You go places other people won’t go. You go in there together, and that’s your brother beside you. To lose those people is hard. It pulls at the heart strings.’ Mourners recounted his fun-loving attitude. ‘Scott was never happier than in the past few years,’ said his brother, Rob Hyslop. His brother-in-law, Mike Ceilley, remembered how he and Hyslop biked down a Hawaiian mountain only to have Hyslop insist on biking uphill to a winery. ‘He didn’t like coasting,’ Ceilley said. ‘He wanted to pedal.’ To close the service, a man played ‘Amazing Grace’ on bagpipes. A firefighter rang a bell nine times to mark Hyslop’s passing: three for an emergency call, three for the response and three for the return to the station.”
A community memorial service was held at noon Wednesday at the Durango High School football field for Scott and the other two victims of the crash. Memorial contributions may be made to the Scott Hyslop Memorial Fund, care of Vectra Bank, 1101 East Second Ave., Durango. Funds will be distributed to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and other causes important to Scott. More information on Scott and his memorial service may be found on the Internet at scotthyslop.blogspot.com and durangoherald.com.
I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Scott three years ago when Scott and Elizabeth hired me to sell their Harvard Ave. house in Wilmington, MA. Elizabeth was studying for boards at the time, and Scott was handling the details of their anticipated move to Durango. In the short time I knew Scott I realized just what an extraordinary human being he was. It was very clear to me that he deeply loved his wife and his family, and he told me that he couldn't wait to start a family with Elizabeth. What a blessing to read about little Dylan! Scott must have been so proud of him!
Scott also told me about his love of climbing and bicycling, and showed me all the climbing gear at the house and was always very excited when he talked about it.
At one point, he showed me the replica of the Olympic torch that he had run with. It was at that point, that Scott told me about the cystic fibrosis. He told me the story about how he did not know that he was being nominated by his brother to carry the torch, and how he was surprised at being selected. I hope you know, Rob, how honored your brother was to have run, and how humbled he was that you thought of him as an inspiration to others in the face of adversity. Scott told me that he would never let the disease get the best of him.
He spoke fondly of the house they were moving to in Durango, and I remember him talking about the beautiful meadows that surrounded it. He was so looking forward to being closer to family.
He also talked bout being a paramedic in Brookline, and it was clear to me not only that he loved his job, but how his desire to help others was so genuine.
I was stunned to hear of the tragic loss of Scott's life as I was watching the Boston evening news last week. I'm not surprised however, that Scott died doing on of the things he loved most...helping other people.
I can't imagine the pain Scott's family is suffering. I can't imagine the great loss to Elizabeth and their son Dylan. I can only hope that Dylan will know what a wonderful father he had.
In the short time I knew Scott, my life was touched. He truly was an inspiration. I am deeply saddened that this world has lost such a bright light.
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Scott's friends and family.
God bless you Elizabeth and your little son. I know Scott loved you both and will live forever in your hearts.
My name is Sumit and I stay in the same house that Scott and Elizabeth sold to us at 1 Harvard Avenue, Wilmington, MA
It was actually exactly 3 years ago that the House was closed on 10th July 2002.
We ( myself and my wife ) had met Scott only on 2 occassions and both of us instantly liked his nature and jovial attitude.
After moving to the house - I used to call him on numerous occassions to figure out a lot of things and he was always helpful.
- There is a saying - "Whom the GOD's love - die young "
I wish his family all the strength and support at this time.
Coincidentally we were in Denver on 2nd July - and were travelling from the airport to DoubleTree Hotel - because of a missed flight - and on the bus we were telling our mom - about Scott and Elizabeth that they live in the same State - Colorada.
We came back from the Vacation and heard about's Scott from a representative of Boston Globe.
Elizabeth and Dylan, I knew Scott through our work with DFRA. From the moment I met him I knew this was an amazing man with an extraordinary passion for life. He never entered a room without a smile...it was contagious. There is one special memory I would like to share with you, it was a conversation I had with Scott about a month ago. Scott came into the front office of Station One with that gleaming smile, we chatted for a moment and then when I asked how he had been and what was new with him his face lit up and his smile grew bigger than ever! He said "I'm a Daddy!" and proceded to tell me about his son Dylan and what an incredible experience it had been so far. He talked with such love and happiness of how he had encountered many blessings in his life but Dylan was by far the most special! He talked about Dylan's many accomplishments thus far, bragged that Dylan was very smart for his age and was an "extra good" baby. I will never forget that conversation. I will always remember thinking 'what a lucky little boy to have Scott for a Daddy'. I'm so sorry Dylan will never know the man who was so proud to be his dad. Scott will live forever in our hearts, he will never be forgotten. Please know that my prayers are with you and may God bless you.
"The power of our faith, the depth of our love, the loyalty of friends and family-our bleakest hours often reveal our greatest blessings. Great comfort can come from these discoveries." Anonymous
It is amazing how fleeting life can be and how people can affect it in such a short period of time. I met Scott and Elizabeth on a ski trip in Whistler and a beautiful friendship blossomed. While on the road for my last company, I had the joy of meeting up with the Hyslops at various points around the country as Elizabeth was on the search for the "perfect position in the perfect spot". It is with great fondness I reminese about our late fall camping trip to Yosimite- the hikes, the leaves; the peaceful nature of it all. I pray that in the days to come that Elizabeth and all of the family will be confident that Scott is looking in on them making sure they are living and experiencing life to its fullest as he did while finding peace and joy in the nature that he so loved.
i have read a lot about the accident. i can not even describe the similarities that i see between what has been said about scott and in the personality of our dear friend nikki. both adventurous, giving, kind, compassionate, and professional people who touched the lives of everyone they came in contact with. please know that our hearts ache for you. we did not know scott but we are all to familiar with this situation. take and seek comfort in those around you. know that you are not alone!! you probably can't even begin to know how many people are out there for you. know that you are loved and that scott will forever watch over you and dylan from the heavens above. you will forever be protected and loved. may your heart be filled with love, and your mind filled with memories. and may your friends and my friends meet in heaven, chat, and laugh at us as we stumble through life here on earth. all our thoughts and prayers, to nikki and scott!!!! thank you!!
Scott and I once responded to a call on Hyslop Road in Brookline. I can remember how enthusiastic he was to go the street that bore his name. He was almost giddy! In his entire time in Brookline, he'd never gone to that street for a response. We laughed when we arrived onscene to find our "trauma"- a woman who put a sewing needle through her finger. God Bless You, Scott. Watch over us!
I am Roger Ceilley, Elizabeth?s father and Scott?s father-in-law.
On behalf of Scott and Elizabeth?s families, I want to thank you all for coming here today to celebrate Scott?s life.
Words can not express how grateful we are for the outpouring of love and support you have given. It?s been truly wonderful to feel a part of such a loving, close-knit community.
I was so proud to have Scott as my son-in-law (my 3rd son). He was a loving husband, father, son and brother. His enthusiastic spirit, love of life and dedication to helping others was an inspiration to all of us.
I still expect Scott to come running through the field here in an old hiking outfit with his two dogs yelling ?Hey guys we are burning daylight. We still have time for a hike, some biking and maybe kayaking!?
You can feel his spirit in this beautiful place he loved so much. His face would light up when he described the wildlife he would see here when he drove by in the early morning.
Thank you again for joining us. And special thanks to the Durango Fire and Rescue A for all the arrangements here today and everything they have done.
Today I'm remembering my dearest cousin Scott on his birthday. Scott became more like a brother to me than a cousin when he came to live with us in Iowa City while he worked at the University of Iowa doing CF research. It was shortly after my mom passed away, and he brought back the laughter and life into our house.
We shared many great times together and would talk for hours about everything. After he met Elizabeth in Iowa City, everything fell into place for him. I'll never forget the times we all shared together. I felt so honored to stand up for Scott and Elizabeth at their wedding, it's something I'll always treasure.
Scott is remembered every day and is in my heart forever. Elizabeth, I will always be grateful to you for making my cousin so happy and his life so full. And to Rob, I can't imagine what it's like to lose your best friend and brother....I've never known any other siblings so close as you two. You're lucky to have so many wonderful memories of your times together. To my aunt Mary Sue and Uncle Dave, words can't describe my sympathy for you, but please know that you're in my heart, thoughts, and prayers every day. I love you!
36 Comments:
This is from a friend in Durango. My name is Leo Lloyd. I had the honor
of
knowing Scott for the past three years. During this time I have had the
privlege of working with him as a fellow paramedic, spending quality
time
with him climbing, skiing and many other outdoor activities he so much
enjoyed. Watching his joy as he and Elizabeth received their gift from
God
in Dylan, so many more memories...This is such a very very difficult
time
for all of us. I don't understand why these terrible things have to
happen.
I do know one thing however, and that is I am truely blessed to have
had
such a friend. Remembering the essence of Scott's compassionate and
caring
spirit, his laugh, his love of his family, and his love for living life
to
the very fullest is and will continue to be a strength to me, his
friends,
and his family.
"To have a good friend is one of the highest delights of life; to be a
good
friend is one of the noblest and most difficult undertakings." Anon.
Scott achieved this and more with everyone he came in contact with. I
thank
God for my short time with him. May God give Elizabeth, his family and
friends the strength to carry on the extraordinary legacy that Scott
has
left us.
Sincerely,
Leo Lloyd
This is Fred Hutt from Durango. I am a member of our county SAR team and have known him for as long as he has been a member, which is about as long as he has lived here.
The loss of Scott has been very difficult because it seems there could be no better match for a person, and for his mission in life. Scott was so dedicated and so professional in his career and I find at least a little solice knowing that he was lost doing what he loved, and what he was absolutely meant to do.
My deepest regret is that I did not spend enough time with Scott before he left. Folks get busy and sometimes we fail to spend time with the people whose company we enjoy. I always knew that someday soon we would have some grand adventures together, but now that will have to wait.
I will miss you Scott. My deepest heartfelt wishes will be with your loved ones you left behind.
The Westlund Family of Denver, Colorado wishes to send our deepest sympathies to Dave and Mary Sue, Elizabeth, Dylan, Rob and Laura Hyslop on this tragic loss.
We have known Scott since he was a young boy and have watched him grow to be an amazing man, dedicated son, brother, husband and father, and someone who always gave of himself to others.
The fact that he died in an act intended to help another is yet another testimony to his giving nature.
Scott will be missed.
We send our love and deepest sympathy to all of his family and
to the community of Durango, which he and Elizabeth chose to be their home.
The Westlunds
Mark, Debbie, Ben, Kate, Matt and Abby
Whenever Scott was around I knew I was in for a good time. The room was a better place when he walked in. He was always ready to go. He just wanted to get out there and live. We can all learn from that. He was the kind of friend I could count on to help me feel good about myself. I can't believe he is gone. I can't believe Dylan will never know him or learn from him the way he should. Scott was so excited to teach him to ski. My heart goes out to all of you, his family, and his friends. We will all miss him. I can still hear him laughing...and so can you.
Peace be with you,
Donna Dignan
Durango, Co
This is from Mike Ceilley...Elizabeth's brother and Scott's brother-in-law. I'd like to thank everyone at Tri-State, the Durango Fire Department, Search and Rescue collegues, Mercy Medical Center staff/friends, and the entire community in Durango for their overwhelming support of our family. At this most difficult time, the outpouring of support has been truly humbling.
I pray that everyone in Durango will continue to support my sister, Elizabeth, as she finds a way to cope with this tragedy and raise their son Dylan. Additionally, I pray the community will offer the same level of support for the friends and families of the others involved in this horrible loss.
Thanks to everyone who has and will continue helping our family as we struggle to move forward. We truly appreciate all the thoughts and prayers.
- Mike
I am writing these words about one courageous and adventurous man who, in the short time I was friends with him, inspired my life in many ways. Scott and I had a relationship which began because we both enjoyed helping others in their times of need. As we figured out spending time on the job, we had much more in common. We were driven by many of the same personal attributes. We learned from each other, both in success and in failure. We laughed about many of the same things together. Most of all, we both enjoyed pursuing the perfect powder turn, the perfect single track trail, and the perfect vista at the top of a mountain. I truly cherished my time with him as I know he made me a better person and helped me formulate my life’s goals and pursuits. I celebrate the wonderful life he had and I am grateful for knowing him. My most sincere thoughts of sympathy go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. Scott’s loving spirit will live forever in all of us.
-Dan
My name is Debbie and I was dispatching in the Cortez Comm Center when the helicopter went down. I want to send my sincerest sympathy to the families and friends and coworkers of the Careflight Company. All of the EMS people in Montezuma County weep with you over your loss. May God hold you in His mighty hands as you try to pick up the pieces and go on.
There are many ideals that I would proclaim to believe in, but often struggle to live by ...to be giving, no matter where you are or whom you’re with, knowing that real joy and happiness comes only with serving ...to see and support the goodness in all people, and to encourage them where they’re not so strong, ...to approach every situation with a can-do, solution oriented attitude, ...to get back up again, ...to be filled with imaginings of great things that could be, to not be encumbered with worries of what might go wrong, ...to be emboldened by adversity ...to appreciate, profoundly and spiritually, the places and people and experiences around you, to go after those experiences with enthusiasm and gusto, and to pack the day with as many of them as possible (and by “the day” meaning THIS day, not SOME day)
Scott EMBODIED and LIVED these ideals, cared passionately about the truth within them, and thus figured out how to overcome the obstacles (which are so familiar) to living that life. He has always been and will continue to be great a inspiration, whenever I think of Scott I feel kicked-in-the-butt, encouraged to live better and fuller.
I personally feel devastatingly sad in losing him, I feel even greater sadness for Elizabeth and Dylan (who, as my wife Stacey so rightly says: “had hit the Dad Jackpot”) and for Scott’s family and friends.
I also feel profoundly sad for all the people who won’t run into Scott, even if briefly, and be influenced and lifted by his spirit.
With deep, sincere gratitude and love,
Richard Brown
Malden, Massachusetts
It is both heartbreaking and comforting to read these memories and comments from everyone.
We are friends of Scott and Elizabeth's from Boston -- we feel so far away right now and we are grateful to Dan for creating this website as it gives us some way to connect with everyone until we're able to be there in person.
Scott died in such a heroic way, but his way of living was heroic, too. Richard and I joke about living in what Elizabeth calls "Scott time" where you can sleep in late, have a fabulous huge breakfast, go bike riding, kayaking and grab an afternoon nap before you go for a hike and cook a long delicious dinner...all in one day! There is no question that Scott lived every moment to it's fullest. He quite simply loved life.
Scott greeted every relationship with friendliness, enthusiasm and warmth. He was very kind and very happy and I don't think there was a person who met him who wasn't affected by him in a positive way. He loved Elizabeth fully and the abundance of love he had for Dylan seemed to tickle even himself. His joy at being Dylan's father seemed like it could have toppled him over at times. It touched me deeply to be with the Hyslops in Bar Harbor and to see Scott's excitement at showing all his favorite places to Dylan for the first time.
I have so many fond memories, but really when I think of Scott his vivaciousness, his exuberance, his passion for adventure, his thirst for life, his love for Elizabeth and Dylan and for his family and friends, and his kindness to everyone...these are what I think of when I think of Scott.
I will always be thinking of Scott's example as I strive to live my life well and to be a great person. I consider it a great honor to call him my friend.
Stacey Whitney Brown
Malden, MA
I was fortunate to come into Scott and Elizabeth's family when my mom Margaret married Scott's uncle Paul. Scott is a blessing to everyone who came in contact with him. Our prayers and thoughts from across the country are with Scott and Elizabeth's families. You don't have to look far to see what an impact Scott and his flight team made every day for others...
http://www.flightweb.com/condolences/index.php?cid=21
http://www.flightweb.com/index.php
http://www.flightparamedic.org/
From Amy Mantineo:
I met Scott a little over two years ago and liked him immediately. As I got to know him I liked him more and more each time we hung out. He remained a good friend when we were expecting our baby even though it was hard on him and Elizabeth. When they had Dylan brought into their lives we were so happy for them and were thrilled to see both Elizabeth and Scott so happy. I talked to Scott they day after he brought Dylan home from the hospital and he was so very excited! It was so wonderful! It makes me so sad to know that Scott will not be here on earth to let his little boy get to know him and see what a wonderful human being he was. But I know that through all of Scott's family and friends he will know that his dad was a great father,husband, friend, and a hero. And I believe that Scott will be with Dylan and Elizabeth every day of their lives.
The thing that is so hard about life is we all get so busy and don't always get as much time with friends as we would like. Dan, Scott, Elizabeth and I had talked many times about going camping with our sons together, or just getting together more often and it was just so hard to find the time. I am so sorry now that we did not make it happen. Life is so short.
Although this is such a hard time for so many of us I take some peace knowing that Scott died doing what he loved. I know from his own mouth that he loved his wife, his son, and his life and he was a very happy man who lived his life to the fullest. We should all learn from that.
I hope that Elizabeth knows how many people here in Durango are thinking of her and praying for her and are here to help her in any way that she needs. I also hope that as time goes by that she finds the strength to go on by loving that little boy that her and Scott wanted so badly. I can't help but wonder if Dylan was brought into this world so that Elizabeth would have him to help her find her strength to go on.
Scott will be so dearly missed by so many and we are so sad to say goodbye to him. Again, our thoughts and prayers are with Elizabeth, Dylan, and all of Scott's family and friends.
I have known Scott for over 2 years and we instantly became friends while out training with Search and Rescue. We were both big Red Sox fans as he spent time in Boston and that is where i grew up. I have so many memories with Scott such as watching Game 4 of the world series with him, talking with him hours before they got the call about recieving Dylan, and the few skiing and hiking days that we had due to our schedule conflicts.
Our running joke was always about how we never got to spend nearly as much time as we wanted to together and that either I needed to become a paramedic or he needed to become a 40 hour a week computer geek. There were so many trips that we talked about doing such as the CDT, Vestal and Arrow, Pigeon and Turret, and many more. On a drive today to Silverton I looked off to the right at Pigeon and Turret and thought how great it would be to have stood up there with him and now I will never get the chance. As I am still wiping away tears from my eyes at missed oppurtunites and memories I am trying to reason with what happened and still can't come to terms with it. I have thought about what Scott was as a person and how he had affected my life.
With my son just a few months ahead of his we could not wait to take them on skiing trips, hiking trips and even talked about teaching them pick offs. We talked about if we would coach soccer and how much fun it was going to be raising them together.
I miss him so much already and this is going to be so tough for all of us to grasp and accept for some time to come.
Scott was a part of so many lives in his new community in Southwest Colorado. My wife Robin and I moved to the area soon after Scott and Elizabeth. I will personalize how Scott affected our lives by sharing my experiences with him.
Scott was the only friend who ventured into the mountains near my house in Mancos to explore some heavily vegetated, unclimbed cliffs with potential for good rock climbing. He had a spirit of adventure. He even rappelled down the rock with a chain saw just in case we needed it to get through the thick brush at the bottom. We laughed as we contorted our bodies through the thick, thorny bushes. We laughed even more when we saw how much more adept his dogs, Trango and Logan, who were at this task. Despite our best efforts, we never ascended a contiguous route up the cliff, but we got to know each other well being in the mountains together.
Scott and I were essentially the same age. We were going through similar issues in our lives and had similar career and personal interests: medicine, mountain rescue, living in the mountains away from town, backcountry skiing, and climbing mountains. We were also each married to a very smart lady physician. He shared with me his thoughts on potentially becoming a father a year before they took Dylan home. He demonstrated a commitment to being a good husband and supporting his wife in their transition to parenthood. I was fortunate that we spent a day together on a search mission in the mountains last fall. Most of our search groups were larger, but it worked out that just Scott and I paired up for the day. While being focused on finding the lost hunter, we were able to bond as friends do.
From where I write now at my home, I can see the beautiful forest between Red Arrow Dome and Helmet Peak. This is a place I have found beauty during all the seasons. It is a place that Scott would have appreciated if we had gone there together. This is the place where Scott had his last adventure, doing the work he enjoyed so much. Scott’s death was tragic and premature. I hope we can feel some comfort that he found a career which brought him joy by being able to help people with his skills as a paramedic while soaring above the mountains he loved.
Elizabeth, family, and friends have been blessed by having Scott with us.
Chad Page
Emergency Physician
Search & Rescue volunteer
When I got into work this morning I arrived at a very shocked and subdued garage. It only took a few minutes to find out why...
I first met Scott when I joined Fallon Ambulance (MA) as a brand new Paramedic. As a third-rider and green medic I was on the lookout for a mentor, and Scott fit the bill perfectly. Scott was not only skilled in medicine, but had an amazing skill with the interpersonal aspect of our work as well. I considered Scott a friend and always looked forward to working with him. The sadness I felt when he moved West is now eclipsed by the sorrow of his death.
Elizabeth, Dylan & family... please know that you are all in my thoughts and my heart aches along with you.
Scott, I will continue to strive to be the Paramedic (and person) you were. We are all better for having known you.
May you all find the peace, someday, which Scott would wish for you.
There is such an enormous hole in the hearts of all of us lucky enough to have known Scott. We have known Scott and his family since he was very young...and his extraordinary attitude toward his own health challenges has always been an inspiration to us. His remarkable sense of adventure set quite a pace for all of us. We'll always see Scott as a gentle giant, a lover of animals (particularly big dogs!), a lover of life. What a legacy Scott leaves. What a gift he has left us all. May God hold Scott's family in the palm of His hand.
Sara, Harry, Adam and Eileen
I met Scott through La Plata County SAR and Durango Fire & Rescue when he first moved here. Like Scott, I was new to the area and was eager to explore all the wonderful things this place offers. Scott's enthusiasm for the outdoors was contagious, but so was his enthusiasm for his profession and helping others. People like Scott are what this world needs more of and it's very sad he was taken away so soon. My heart and prayers go out to his wife and family. I hope you will be able to find peace in Scott's passing and that you'll have a lifetime of warm remembrances of him.
To Scott’s friends and family,
I was so sorry to hear of this tragic loss. I only knew Scott for a short while. But I could not help being impressed by him. I especially admired his optimism, even in the face of adversity. He lived life fully - in all the best ways. I know that he was also committed to helping others. He truly had a bright and noble spirit, and he had a big heart. I have been enriched by knowing him.
My deepest sympathy to those who now suffer from his loss.
Mike Welsh
Iowa City, Iowa
Scott and Elizabeth were great neighbors in Wilmington,MA. The first time I met Scott he was walking his dog with a cast on his foot. I have such great memories of being Scott and Elizabeth's neighbor and friend.
My heart and thoughts are with Elizabeth and her son. And the Hyslop family.
-Marian, Dougie and Cody
My heart breaks for Elizabeth and for Dylan, as well as the rest of Scott's family and friends. While I don't know you personally, I know the pain you are going through. I know how overwhelming this thing called grief can be. I wish there were words of comfort I could offer, anything to ease your sorrow and your pain. I hope your family and friends surround you with love and support, but if you ever need someone to vent with, to cry with or just to listen, I "get it" and my door is always open.
I am so sorry Elizabeth that you have to go through this pain.
Sandy Hellman
TodderNV@hotmail.com
(Wife of Flight Paramedic Todd Hellman, 06/09/64-08/22/04, Elko, Nevada)
Hi my name is Nicole de Ruiter and I am the Family Center of Durango Coordinator.Unfortunately I did not know Scott himself. But,Dylan, the little "Model" infant massage baby and Elizabeth came to the newborn Group here at the Family Center for a couple of months before she went back to work. And what an impression they made on me. This wonderful caring mother sat with me on the ground with Dylan in her arms sharing their story of love, wanting a baby and receiving Dylan like a miracle. I would like to let them know that we, as staff and all our moms and dads of the Family center, are here for them, and if there is anything they need, please let us know. Elizabeth and Dylan and ofcourse the whole extended family , you are in our thoughts. Nicole
The Smit Family of Centennial, CO wish to extend their deepest sympathy to Elizabeth and Dylon, Dave and Mary Sue, and to Rob and Laurel. We have been neighbors of the Hyslops for the past 25 years and have had the privilege of watching Scott grow and mature over the years. We know how proud his parents have been of him and the life that he chose. He will be missed. We send our love and sympathy to you all and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers during these difficult times.
Pete and Marie
This is Jay Swan from Durango. I knew Scott through search and rescue, but our paths didn't cross often, so I didn't know him well. Just a few weeks ago, however, we had a nice little chat about family life and the joys of fatherhood. Now I will remember that conversation forever. My thoughts and best wishes to his family who he loved so much.
My name is Amy Allen from Durango. I met Scott through the Fire Department and from working in the ER as an RN. I always commented on Scott's superb professionalism, excellent patient care and the essence of calm to a critical patient. It's too bad however I truely never told him... He has left me with this lesson. Not long ago I saw the proud papa with Dylan. When I asked how he and Elizabeth were ajusting to parenthood. Scott did not answer with the typical .... need sleep! He just said Dylan's a talker and he has much to say... "It's great!" Our hearts go out to Elizabeth, Dylan and Family.
Peace,
Amy, Rod and Morgan Allen
Immortality lies not in
the things you leave behind,
But in the people
your life has touched
As Scott's third grade teacher at Lois Lenski Elementary in Littleton, Colorado, I had the opportunity to be touched deeply by Scott's engaging spirit, love of learning, and respect for his classroom community of learners.
Scott's parents, Mary Sue and Dave, modeled the importance of living life to its fullest. Through experiences with family and friends, Scott shared his appreciation for others, nature, and the world. Thank you all!
My heartfelt thoughts and sympathy go to Scott's family and friends: Mary Sue, Dave, Rob, Elizabeth and Dylan...
I will remember the positive impact that Scott made in our world!
Fondly,
Linda Erickson (Krula)
and on behalf of his teachers at Lenski Elementary, Littleton, CO
I am Michael Flanagan, and to merely say I knew Scott because I worked with him would be to minimize the importance he played in my life. We did work together, in Boston, and became fast friends on a call.
We entered the room where a diabetic patient had become hypoglycemic, and subsequently very confused. The patient repeatedly asked "Why are you here?" What followed was a lengthy discussion between the three of us (before, during and after treating the patient) about why any of us are here. God? Chance? Destiny? I knew I had found someone more than a "partner," I had found a matching soul. Elizabeth and Michelle, my wife, often commented on how frightening it was the way Scott and I could complete each others thoughts. Our conversations reduced practically to knowing grunts and gestures. I have three brothers, and Scott was my fourth.
I am sorry I could not find the strength to talk at Scott's memorial this week. What I would have spoken to was Scott's willingness to sacrafice the things he loved for the people he loved. He recently traveled to South American and Mt. Logan both times not reaching the "goal" becasue of weather or caring for his partner. Both times he came back glowing about how successful the trip was, and how happy he was he had gone. I witnessed this several times and heard about it countless others. I know that on a recent bike ride Dylan became uncomfortable, and rather than forging on Scott picked up Dylan and was not going to let him go. He'd walk out if he had to.
Scott and I were skiing in Tuckerman's ravine. It was a March day on Mt. Washington that comes about once a decade. We had taken our first run when he noticed Trango had gotten caught and was looking for help. He could have left him there and taken another run. Trango was in no danger (he was scared of the heights he had climbed to). But instead Scott climbed up, and after coaxing didn't get Trango down he carried him down the 50+ degree pitch. Even after that he could have tied Trango up and gotten in a few more runs, only having missed one or two. But Trango was scared, and Scott would not leave his side. He gave up on the rest of the day to sit by Trango's side. In the parking lot at the end of the day Scott had a big smile on his face, and just said, "what a great day." There are a lot of outdoor enthusiasts, only a handfull with Scott's ability to adapt to his surroundings (no skiing here I'll learn to bike, no biking I'll ice climb, etc.) and none who had his genuine willingness to sacrafice without complaint, and with a joy in whatever the final experience provided.
My vocabulary is too small, and my eloquence is too weak to descriube the void left in my life, and the pain I feel for Elizabeth and Dylan. The sun will shine brighter, the breeze will blow sweeter, the snow will fall deeper, the mountains will be greener now that Scott has gone to be a part of them.
My name is Randy Black, and I was fortunate enough to know Scott for the last 2-3 years, working directly with him at Durango Fire & Rescue, and also once he joined CareFlight.
To the entire family of Scott and Elizabeth, I would like to send my most heartfelt condolences on your loss. As a friend and co-worker of Scott's, I can only imagine the pain of the loss to his family. The impact he has had on his friends, his community and his places of work (past & present) only go to show how incredible of a person he was. I heard someone say after his ceremony that they felt very inadequate in their life compared to what Scott accomplished in only 33 years. I think that's an understatement. One of the positive aspects to come from this tragedy, is the chance for everyone to try to become a better person. I think everyone who knew Scott, is now trying to have more passion for life, more compassion for others, more love for their spouse and family, and to truly rise to their highest potential.
To Dylan:
Since I first heard of this horrible accident, my thoughts went to you. All of the adults around had some sort of relationship with your Dad and had the opportunity to work with him, play with him, and see him at his best (which seemed to be always!). You have been denied an incredible opportunity to know your Dad. I want to try to give you a tiny glimpse into who of your relatives you can relate him to be.
-He had the fantastic laugh of your Grandpa David Hyslop. It's the most unique laugh I have ever heard, and it made others laugh just to hear your dad.
-He had the compassion for helping others that your Mom has. He dedicated his life to help others, and as someone at his memorial service stated, he trained his whole life to become a Flight Paramedic. The compassion in your family runs very deep.
-He had the love of the outdoors of your uncle Rob, and many of your Dad's friends. The outdoors were where he truly lived, and ultimately died. His memorial was held outside in a beautiful meadow on a beautiful day.
-Your dad possessed the appreciation and respect of others that your entire family has displayed during this difficult time. Somehow, through their own grief, they have spent an amazing amount of time and effort making sure that everyone else is doing OK, and providing support to us.
-As you will read or hear stories of, your Dad was either considered a brother by others, or he considered others his brother. In that term is the special relationship that develops when people meet who would do anything to help the other, provide unlimited support, and a friendship that not even death can change.
Your Father was an incredible Paramedic, who had a gift for caring, connecting and communicating with each of his patients.
I could probably ramble on forever, trying my best to put down the impossible. There is no way to ever explain to you in words the impact and importance of your father in the lives of everyone he came in contact with. As you grow up, please remember that you were the best thing that ever happened to your parents. Your Dad glowed and bragged at every opportunity, about how wonderful you were, and how much you meant to him.
No one can understand why this tragedy has happend. But please understand this: The world is a better place because of him; your family is stronger and more loving because of him; and everyone who ever came in contact with your Dad is a better person for knowing him.
May God bless you in your life.
Randy Black
scott's obit in des moines register
Scott David Hyslop
Scott Hylsop, 33, husband of Elizabeth Ceilley-Hyslop native of West Des Moines died July 1 when a Tri-State CareFlight helicopter crashed near Durango, CO. The flight was attempting to rescue an injured logger in a remote mountain site nearby. Scott was born Sept. 22, 1971 in Denver, the son of David and Mary Sue Hyslop. He married Elizabeth Ceilley on Dec. 28, 1996 in West Des Moines, IA. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ceilley-Hyslop and their son, 5-month-old Dylan Hyslop of Durango, his parents, Mary Sue and David Hyslop of Centennial, CO., his brother and sister-in-law, Rob and Laurel Hyslop of Evergreen, CO., and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. An avid climber, skier, mountain biker and hiker, Scott had a great love of the outdoors. He devoted his life to helping others in times of need and also was an inspiration to those living with cystic fibrosis.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday in a meadow north of Durango near Scott’s home. Durango Herald staff writer, Chuck Slothower, attended and reported the event:
“Several of Hyslop’s friends and family members noted his dedication to the pursuit of happiness. ‘His ability to fit as much as possible into one day was nothing short of amazing,’ said Leo Lloyd, a co-worker from Bayfield. ‘Scott chose to be happy.’ Scott became a father five months ago with the adoption of Dylan, his son. He especially enjoyed reading Sports Illustrated to him, a friend said. A shiny Ladder One fire truck decked with American and Colorado flags led the way to the service. Firefighters presented Hyslop’s widow with this helmet. His bright-red flight suit rested on a table. Skeleton crews staffed Durango-area fire stations while dozens of firefighters flocked to the service. Many wore black mourning bands over their badges. ‘I think it’s as close to losing a family member as you’ll ever lose’ Durango Fire & Rescue Authority Chief Mike Dunaway said. ‘You go places other people won’t go. You go in there together, and that’s your brother beside you. To lose those people is hard. It pulls at the heart strings.’ Mourners recounted his fun-loving attitude. ‘Scott was never happier than in the past few years,’ said his brother, Rob Hyslop. His brother-in-law, Mike Ceilley, remembered how he and Hyslop biked down a Hawaiian mountain only to have Hyslop insist on biking uphill to a winery. ‘He didn’t like coasting,’ Ceilley said. ‘He wanted to pedal.’ To close the service, a man played ‘Amazing Grace’ on bagpipes. A firefighter rang a bell nine times to mark Hyslop’s passing: three for an emergency call, three for the response and three for the return to the station.”
A community memorial service was held at noon Wednesday at the Durango High School football field for Scott and the other two victims of the crash.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Scott Hyslop Memorial Fund, care of Vectra Bank, 1101 East Second Ave., Durango. Funds will be distributed to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and other causes important to Scott. More information on Scott and his memorial service may be found on the Internet at scotthyslop.blogspot.com and durangoherald.com.
Scott David Hyslop
Scott Hylsop, 33, husband of Elizabeth Ceilley-Hyslop native of West Des Moines died July 1 when a Tri-State CareFlight helicopter crashed near Durango, CO. The flight was attempting to rescue an injured logger in a remote mountain site nearby. Scott was born Sept. 22, 1971 in Denver, the son of David and Mary Sue Hyslop. He married Elizabeth Ceilley on Dec. 28, 1996 in West Des Moines, IA. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ceilley-Hyslop and their son, 5-month-old Dylan Hyslop of Durango, his parents, Mary Sue and David Hyslop of Centennial, CO., his brother and sister-in-law, Rob and Laurel Hyslop of Evergreen, CO., and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. An avid climber, skier, mountain biker and hiker, Scott had a great love of the outdoors. He devoted his life to helping others in times of need and also was an inspiration to those living with cystic fibrosis.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday in a meadow north of Durango near Scott’s home. Durango Herald staff writer, Chuck Slothower, attended and reported the event:
“Several of Hyslop’s friends and family members noted his dedication to the pursuit of happiness. ‘His ability to fit as much as possible into one day was nothing short of amazing,’ said Leo Lloyd, a co-worker from Bayfield. ‘Scott chose to be happy.’ Scott became a father five months ago with the adoption of Dylan, his son. He especially enjoyed reading Sports Illustrated to him, a friend said. A shiny Ladder One fire truck decked with American and Colorado flags led the way to the service. Firefighters presented Hyslop’s widow with this helmet. His bright-red flight suit rested on a table. Skeleton crews staffed Durango-area fire stations while dozens of firefighters flocked to the service. Many wore black mourning bands over their badges. ‘I think it’s as close to losing a family member as you’ll ever lose’ Durango Fire & Rescue Authority Chief Mike Dunaway said. ‘You go places other people won’t go. You go in there together, and that’s your brother beside you. To lose those people is hard. It pulls at the heart strings.’ Mourners recounted his fun-loving attitude. ‘Scott was never happier than in the past few years,’ said his brother, Rob Hyslop. His brother-in-law, Mike Ceilley, remembered how he and Hyslop biked down a Hawaiian mountain only to have Hyslop insist on biking uphill to a winery. ‘He didn’t like coasting,’ Ceilley said. ‘He wanted to pedal.’ To close the service, a man played ‘Amazing Grace’ on bagpipes. A firefighter rang a bell nine times to mark Hyslop’s passing: three for an emergency call, three for the response and three for the return to the station.”
A community memorial service was held at noon Wednesday at the Durango High School football field for Scott and the other two victims of the crash.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Scott Hyslop Memorial Fund, care of Vectra Bank, 1101 East Second Ave., Durango. Funds will be distributed to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and other causes important to Scott. More information on Scott and his memorial service may be found on the Internet at scotthyslop.blogspot.com and durangoherald.com.
I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Scott three years ago when Scott and Elizabeth hired me to sell their Harvard Ave. house in Wilmington, MA. Elizabeth was studying for boards at the time, and Scott was handling the details of their anticipated move to Durango. In the short time I knew Scott I realized just what an extraordinary human being he was. It was very clear to me that he deeply loved his wife and his family, and he told me that he couldn't wait to start a family with Elizabeth. What a blessing to read about little Dylan! Scott must have been so proud of him!
Scott also told me about his love of climbing and bicycling, and showed me all the climbing gear at the house and was always very excited when he talked about it.
At one point, he showed me the replica of the Olympic torch that he had run with. It was at that point, that Scott told me about the cystic fibrosis. He told me the story about how he did not know that he was being nominated by his brother to carry the torch, and how he was surprised at being selected. I hope you know, Rob, how honored your brother was to have run, and how humbled he was that you thought of him as an inspiration to others in the face of adversity. Scott told me that he would never let the disease get the best of him.
He spoke fondly of the house they were moving to in Durango, and I remember him talking about the beautiful meadows that surrounded it. He was so looking forward to being closer to family.
He also talked bout being a paramedic in Brookline, and it was clear to me not only that he loved his job, but how his desire to help others was so genuine.
I was stunned to hear of the tragic loss of Scott's life as I was watching the Boston evening news last week. I'm not surprised however, that Scott died doing on of the things he loved most...helping other people.
I can't imagine the pain Scott's family is suffering. I can't imagine the great loss to Elizabeth and their son Dylan. I can only hope that Dylan will know what a wonderful father he had.
In the short time I knew Scott, my life was touched. He truly was an inspiration. I am deeply saddened that this world has lost such a bright light.
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Scott's friends and family.
God bless you Elizabeth and your little son. I know Scott loved you both and will live forever in your hearts.
Ann Conlin
Tewksbury, MA
Hello
My name is Sumit and I stay in the same house that Scott and Elizabeth sold to us at 1 Harvard Avenue, Wilmington, MA
It was actually exactly 3 years ago that the House was closed on 10th July 2002.
We ( myself and my wife ) had met Scott only on 2 occassions and both of us instantly liked his nature and jovial attitude.
After moving to the house - I used to call him on numerous occassions to figure out a lot of things and he was always helpful.
- There is a saying - "Whom the GOD's love - die young "
I wish his family all the strength and support at this time.
Coincidentally we were in Denver on 2nd July - and were travelling from the airport to DoubleTree Hotel - because of a missed flight - and on the bus we were telling our mom - about Scott and Elizabeth that they live in the same State - Colorada.
We came back from the Vacation and heard about's Scott from a representative of Boston Globe.
Sumit, Wilmington, MA
Elizabeth and Dylan,
I knew Scott through our work with DFRA. From the moment I met him I knew this was an amazing man with an extraordinary passion for life. He never entered a room without a smile...it was contagious. There is one special memory I would like to share with you, it was a conversation I had with Scott about a month ago. Scott came into the front office of Station One with that gleaming smile, we chatted for a moment and then when I asked how he had been and what was new with him his face lit up and his smile grew bigger than ever! He said "I'm a Daddy!" and proceded to tell me about his son Dylan and what an incredible experience it had been so far. He talked with such love and happiness of how he had encountered many blessings in his life but Dylan was by far the most special! He talked about Dylan's many accomplishments thus far, bragged that Dylan was very smart for his age and was an "extra good" baby. I will never forget that conversation. I will always remember thinking 'what a lucky little boy to have Scott for a Daddy'. I'm so sorry Dylan will never know the man who was so proud to be his dad.
Scott will live forever in our hearts, he will never be forgotten. Please know that my prayers are with you and may God bless you.
"The power of our faith, the depth of our love, the loyalty of friends and family-our bleakest hours often reveal our greatest blessings. Great comfort can come from these discoveries." Anonymous
Val Matthys
It is amazing how fleeting life can be and how people can affect it in such a short period of time. I met Scott and Elizabeth on a ski trip in Whistler and a beautiful friendship blossomed. While on the road for my last company, I had the joy of meeting up with the Hyslops at various points around the country as Elizabeth was on the search for the "perfect position in the perfect spot". It is with great fondness I reminese about our late fall camping trip to Yosimite- the hikes, the leaves; the peaceful nature of it all. I pray that in the days to come that Elizabeth and all of the family will be confident that Scott is looking in on them making sure they are living and experiencing life to its fullest as he did while finding peace and joy in the nature that he so loved.
dear elizabeth and family,
i have read a lot about the accident. i can not even describe the similarities that i see between what has been said about scott and in the personality of our dear friend nikki. both adventurous, giving, kind, compassionate, and professional people who touched the lives of everyone they came in contact with. please know that our hearts ache for you. we did not know scott but we are all to familiar with this situation. take and seek comfort in those around you. know that you are not alone!! you probably can't even begin to know how many people are out there for you. know that you are loved and that scott will forever watch over you and dylan from the heavens above. you will forever be protected and loved. may your heart be filled with love, and your mind filled with memories. and may your friends and my friends meet in heaven, chat, and laugh at us as we stumble through life here on earth.
all our thoughts and prayers,
to nikki and scott!!!! thank you!!
Scott and I once responded to a call on Hyslop Road in Brookline. I can remember how enthusiastic he was to go the street that bore his name. He was almost giddy! In his entire time in Brookline, he'd never gone to that street for a response. We laughed when we arrived onscene to find our "trauma"- a woman who put a sewing needle through her finger. God Bless You, Scott. Watch over us!
Welcome
I am Roger Ceilley, Elizabeth?s father and Scott?s father-in-law.
On behalf of Scott and Elizabeth?s families, I want to thank you all for coming here today to celebrate Scott?s life.
Words can not express how grateful we are for the outpouring of love and support you have given. It?s been truly wonderful to feel a part of such a loving, close-knit community.
I was so proud to have Scott as my son-in-law (my 3rd son). He was a loving husband, father, son and brother. His enthusiastic spirit, love of life and dedication to helping others was an inspiration to all of us.
I still expect Scott to come running through the field here in an old hiking outfit with his two dogs yelling ?Hey guys we are burning daylight. We still have time for a hike, some biking and maybe kayaking!?
You can feel his spirit in this beautiful place he loved so much. His face would light up when he described the wildlife he would see here when he drove by in the early morning.
Thank you again for joining us. And special thanks to the Durango Fire and Rescue A for all the arrangements here today and everything they have done.
Today I'm remembering my dearest cousin Scott on his birthday. Scott became more like a brother to me than a cousin when he came to live with us in Iowa City while he worked at the University of Iowa doing CF research. It was shortly after my mom passed away, and he brought back the laughter and life into our house.
We shared many great times together and would talk for hours about everything. After he met Elizabeth in Iowa City, everything fell into place for him. I'll never forget the times we all shared together. I felt so honored to stand up for Scott and Elizabeth at their wedding, it's something I'll always treasure.
Scott is remembered every day and is in my heart forever. Elizabeth, I will always be grateful to you for making my cousin so happy and his life so full. And to Rob, I can't imagine what it's like to lose your best friend and brother....I've never known any other siblings so close as you two. You're lucky to have so many wonderful memories of your times together. To my aunt Mary Sue and Uncle Dave, words can't describe my sympathy for you, but please know that you're in my heart, thoughts, and prayers every day. I love you!
Love always,
Lisa
Thinking about Scott today and missing him.
Jim Dyer
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