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BORN
1940
DIED
2025
Lester Boynton Obituary
October 29, 1940 – August 23, 2025
Ring... ring... "The Pie Man" is coming...
From pie fights to unforgettable laughter that could be heard from "B" Street to Chester, Butch lived his life with humor, heart, and honesty.
He passed away on August 23, 2025, at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy as big as his laugh.
Born a true Kern County original, Butch loved to boat, ski, and race on the water. He knew Lake Ming like the back of his hand, and his Miller boat was just as beautiful as the lady he married.
During high school, he started working at the family tire business, Boynton Bros. This is where his work ethic and larger-than-life personality shined. His talents soon carried him into real estate – excelling so much that he became the youngest Salesmen of the Year by the Bakersfield Board of Realtors, while at Watson Realty. After much success as a broker, he later put his hands to work as a building contractor.
More than his titles, Butch believed in people. He trusted his businessman friends more than the numbers on a ledger, and he measured success not by dollars, but by relationships and loyalty.
He was a devoted husband, Dad, and Papa whose family always came first. His love, lessons, and laughter will live on in all who were lucky enough to know him.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years Mary Ann; his son Chris Boynton; daughter and son in law Missy and Wil Bernhardt; and grandchildren, Madi Boynton and Boyd Bernhardt.
A luncheon in his honor will be held on Thursday September 18, 2025, at 11:30 at Wool Growers. Friends who knew our Dad, husband, and Papa are warmly invited to join us as we celebrate his life. Please RSVP to family by 9/15.
Butch loved all people, but especially animals. Please consider making a donation to a local Kern County animal rescue in his name.
www.bakersfield.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lester Boynton
4 Entries
Kathy Winlack Berlin
September 10, 2025
When I was born I think Butch was 4 years old. Our parents were already best of friends, and I actually thought we were cousins until I was about 7 or 8 years old. Les and Nadine taught me to water ski, which was the love of my life growing up. Butch was a friend to anyone who met him, and a treasured friend. I love him and will miss him!
Frank Hoetker
September 7, 2025
Butch Boynton was a year ahead of me at BHS...we shared many of the same friends and were in the Y group together. Lots of fun parties at his home on B Street. He was a dear friend, fine gentleman in every sense of the word, with a keen sense of humor and good disposition. He will certainly be missed, as he now rests peacefully in his Heavenly paradise.
Suzy LeMaster Curtin
September 7, 2025
I learned to water ski with Butch & Mike Mettler at the Mettler's place at Lake Tahoe. Then Les had that beautiful Miller boat built & it took on a life of its own. Les & Butch shared so much through their love of that Miller Boat. Lots of time spent on Lake Ming as well. I remember when he pulled 4 big football players out of the water with that powerful boat. He loved it!
I was with the Boynton's when Butch flipped his boat racing on Kings River. Nadine was fit to be tied! We used to ski on Kings River for miles until our legs would just give out. Butch was also an awesome dancer. So many early memories & there was never a dull moment when he was around. I loved it when he stepped in and married Mary Ann after Mikes untimely passing. Looking back, I think they were both always in love with her. It was Butch & Mary Ann's destiny and was meant to be.
He lived life large; with his infectious personality he touched us all & I am happy to have been a small part of it.
Much love to Mary Ann as she moves forward without her sidekick but with the support of their family she will find comfort. Love, Sue Le
Sue LeMaster Curtin
Michael Campbell
September 6, 2025
Met Butch at Watson Realty.
We both loved to fly and did our share. We took turns under the hood training for our IFR certificates.
I was in a very limited group that he let fly his plane.
Bonanza A36-TC
B-83484-W (if my memory serves me and that was a long tie ago)
Michael Campbell
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
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