Obituary of John Wayne Boyer

With heavy hearts the Boyer family announce the passing of John Wayne Boyer on March 6, 2026 at his home in St. Marys at the age of 75. He will be greatly missed by Suzanne, his best friend, travel companion, casino cohort and wife of 54 years.

John was a devoted and loving father to Casey (Lisa) of St. Marys and Rocky (Vanja) of Hamilton. John’s goal in life was to guide and protect his sons and his joy in life was watching his sons guide and protect their children. He was a proud and much-loved Papa to Julien (Felicity), Cierra, Ana and Alexa who each had a special place in his heart.

John was born in Thessalon, the son of John Eager and Mae (Chillman) Boyer. He was the youngest of seven children: Shirley, Loretta, Calvin, Pat, Valerie and his beloved Rosemary. He will be remembered by many cousins, nephews, nieces; especially Brad Boyer (Kim), Jason Duguay (Kim), Julie Bouchard (Frank) and Todd Showan (Cherie). John enjoyed meeting up with Gerry Showan and Gary Robinson to reminisce about the good ole days in Thessalon.

John was a much loved, respected and welcomed addition to the  Vinette family. He will be deeply missed by brother-in-law TiJean, sister-in-law Donna, nephew TiJean (Tara), niece Nicole (Freddy) and niece Rene (Tanya) and their families.

John will also be missed by his Spirit Sister Dawn Olar. Together they shared many stories and laughs. He considered Dawn to be his true friend.

Growing up in Thessalon, John’s interests included fishing, hunting, playing hockey and riding motorcycles. He passed these interests of hunting and fishing down to his sons and grandson. Over the years, John spent a lot time fishing on the Thessalon River with his sons and grandson.  

At an early age John moved to the Sault to work at Algoma Steel and lived there until he moved to St. Marys to be closer to his sons and their families. He treasured time spent with family.

When a man dies, he does not die.
He becomes the wind, the rain, the sun and the stars.

Do not think of me as gone.
I am with you still in each new dawn.

The Boyer family extend their gratitude to Dr. Melissa Hemy, Sault Ste. Marie and Dr. Joshua Burley and Hubbard Pharmacy, St. Marys for incredible care and support. Thank you is also extended to the Stratford Police Services and Perth Ambulance Services for their professionalism and compassion.

In keeping with John’s wishes, there will not be a service.

If you wish, memorial donations in John’s honour may be made to the St. Marys Healthcare Foundation.