Richard Boyer

Richard J. "Dick" Boyer, age 87, of Melrose, died peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, August 11, 2017 at his home in Melrose, Minnesota.

Family will be holding private services at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls to honor Richard's years of service.

Richard Jerome Boyer was born September 4, 1929 in Page, Nebraska to Oscar and Laura (Lueth) Boyer. He joined the Air Force in 1951 and was honorably discharged in January of 1955. Richard served during the Korean Conflict and was stationed in the Aleutian Islands between Russia and Alaska. Shortly after being discharged Richard married Neola Wesely on April 12, 1955 at St. Mary's in Cedar Bluffs, Nebraska. The couple made their home in Nebraska for several years. Richard was a paid member of the Fremont Fire and Rescue Squad. He and Neola owned a lawn and snow business called Boyer Lawn Service for 13 years. When Richard and Neola moved to Minnesota in 1971 they bought a dairy farm by Eagle Bend. They kept the farm for 25 years before retiring and moving to Melrose.

Richard was known for his woodwork. He hand crafted many treasures filling his home, and the homes of his family, with beautiful woodwork. He also had a joy for collecting firearms and would shoot clay targets with his children and grandchildren. Richard was a firm believer of the 2nd amendment. Richard was an avid reader of western novels and loved telling stories from the past.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years. Neola Boyer of Melrose; children, Deb Sletten (Doug) of Gonvick, Kate Boyer-Endres (Tom) of Greeley, CO, Rick Boyer (Carol) of Melrose, and Barb Stueve (John) of Greenfield; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren (and one on the way); sister, Deloris Kyncl of Elkhorn, NE; and his beloved dog Truman who was at his side at the end.

Richard will be deeply missed and never forgotten.