Richard J. Boerst

SHERMAN- Richard “Dick” J. Boerst, 90, of Sherman, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, December 15, 2024, with family at his side, following a brief illness. He was born November 17, 1934, in North East, PA, the son of the late Robert and Gertrude Northrop Boerst.

     Dick was a 1954 graduate of Sherman Central School. He had worked as a heavy equipment operator for the Local 17 in Buffalo, NY, as well as the manager for the Sherman Farmer’s Mill and in later years he was employed by Tractor Supply in Lakewood, NY.

     Dick had been a member of the Sherman Community Church where he served as a Deacon and board member. He was also a member of the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Mounted Division, served on the Sherman Central School Board, was a member of the Stanley Hose Fire Department and had served in the National Guard. 

     He was an avid Watch Fob collector and enjoyed bowling, horses, and spending time with his family, especially attending his grandchildren’s events, sporting events and supporting the Sherman Wildcats.  He was a grandfather figure to many kids other than his own in the community. 

     Dick is survived by his loving wife, Donna Mae Peterson Boerst, whom he married June 27, 1958, in Sherman, NY, three children, Dianne (Mark) Freeman, David (Lisa) Boerst, and Denise (Jeff) Ohman, nine grandchildren, Amanda Chambers, Sarah (Jeff) Greiner, Richard Boerst, Justine (Jamie) Lucas, Miranda Blough, Micaela Blough, Mickaela Guffey, Matthew Ohman, and Madelynn Ohman, and six great-grandchildren, Derrick, Mason, Hayden, Khalil, Lyric and Connor. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Duane Boerst. 

     At Dick’s request, there will be no public services observed. A private graveside service will be held in the Sherman Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

     Memorial donations can be made to the Stanley Hose Fire Department (PO Box 574, Sherman, NY 14781) or the Sherman Community Church (107 Church Street, Sherman, NY 14781).

    To leave a remembrance or to post condolences to the family, please visit freayfuneralhome.com