Gerald Boyer

Gerald J. (Jerry) Boyer, 82, of East Peoria, IL, passed away Monday, September 26, 2022, at home with his family at his bedside. He was born May 17, 1940, in Riverdale, MI, to John and Frances Brenner Boyer.

He married Juanita M. (Sue) Entrican on June 30, 1961, in Bartonville, IL.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Juanita (Sue) of East Peoria, much-loved daughter Karen (Patrick) McMenamin, three granddaughters: Kate (Dan) Gashaw, Maggie McMenamin, all of Morton, IL, and Devan (Cody) Stieglitz of St. Louis, MO and seven special great-grandchildren: Nate, Vivian, Eva, Josie, Sabrina, Drew and Vinny and one sister, Marlene (Frank-deceased) Wallace of Vicksburg, MI. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Leonard, and one sister, Yvonne Walker.

He was reared and attended elementary/high schools in Alma, Michigan & graduated from the Non-Commissioned Officer Academy in 1976 at Knoxville, Tennessee.

Jerry had over 34 years in the military, including the army and air force. He retired from the Illinois Air National Guard as Senior Master Sergeant in September 1994.

He was a regular volunteer at FOLEPI in East Peoria, IL, working on the floats for the parade. He was a past member of St Martin de Porres choir and men's club. He was especially close to his three granddaughters during their formative years, taking them on vacations and attending and enjoying their dance, theater, and sports activities. He was so proud of the women they had become.

Jerry enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, and spending winters in Florida for almost twenty years. He especially enjoyed playing the guitar and singing in the Strawberry Jam Band in Plant City, FL. He was a member of St Ann's Catholic Church in Peoria, IL.

Per his wishes, there will be no services, and cremation rites have been accorded. Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Workshop & Training Center, 3215 N. University Ave, Peoria, IL 61604 or to his church. Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services, Peoria, is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a memory or send a condolence to his family, visit www.peoriafuneral.com.

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