Parke Boyer

Parke was born on September 27, 1912, in Crete, IL. He was an ardent mariner, and safely piloted his ship through many years of effort, triumph and happiness. His chief pride and joy were his First Officer of many years, Lois, and their crew of 6 children, all launched successfully on their own life voyages. He was an ardent and devoted Christian, and a friend to all he met.He married Lois Ruth Reace on December 10, 1938, is survived by her and by his children: Parke Boyer, Jr. and Fran (Robinson); Peter William and Nancy (Siemons); James Reace and Mary (Williams); Barbara Jean and Jim (Hitchman); David Charles; Andrew Paul and Carol (Moore); 17 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 2 step great-grandchildren, dear friends Ann Conroy and Marian Pollard, 9 beloved Reace in-laws and 23 nieces and nephews.Parke received a BA in Architectural Engineering from the University of Illinois in 1936, was a lieutenant in the Navy Sea Bees from 1942 to 1946, and a member of Commodore Decatur Yacht Club since 1956. He led a busy and productive life, always involved in his church, family and many community organizations.He was preceded in death by his parents, Della and John; his twin sister Lois Boyer and his older sister Dorothy Champlain; and 5 Reace in-laws who he considered brothers and sisters. He moved to Decatur in 1946 to work for Mississippi Valley Structural Steel Co. He retired in 1978.There will be a Celebration of Life and Bon Voyage gathering at First United Methodist Church, Decatur, IL, at 2:00 P.M., Sunday, March 29, 2009. Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church or Commodore Decatur Yacht Club. Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home, Decatur, IL, will be assisting the family with arrangements. "
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