Elmer Paul Boyle

Elmer Paul Boyle1919 ~2004  Elmer Paul Boyle, age 85, died August 7, 2004 in Provo, Utah due to complications following surgery. He was born in Ogden, Utah March 21, 1919 to Elmer D. and Elizabeth Newey Boyle. He graduated from Weber State University with an Associate Degree and Utah State University with a Bachelor's degree in Range Management and Forestry in 1941.He married Eileen Gummersall, November 12, 1949 in Soda Springs, Idaho. They had three children, Paul, Dennis and Terrel. Elmer served as a Navy pilot during World War II, flying PBYs with the Black Cat Squadron, achieving the rank of Lieutenant. He served from April 1942 to November 1945 and was honorably discharged. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross and a Presidential Unit Citation. He was known as "Mike" in the service. Elmer was employed by the U. S. Forest Service and was the District Ranger in the Toiyabe District in Nevada and then was transferred to the Sawtooth District in Ketchum, Idaho. He was later transferred to Provo in 1962 to be the Uinta District Ranger and Liaison Officer on the Central Utah Water Project. He retired in 1976. Elmer loved nature and being outdoors. His father owned and operated an orchard in Roy, Utah, which he continued to work following the death of his parents. He began skiing in Ogden at an early age. He later became a certified ski instructor and taught at Sundance and Snowbird Ski Resorts for over 40 years. He was known as "Buck" at Snowbird. He also loved fly fishing, tying his own flies and shared this passion with his children and grandchildren. They spent many wonderful hours fly-fishing together on the Provo and many other rivers. He continued his love of flying as a private pilot and spent many hours in the air. He and his wife, Eileen, traveled extensively after his retirement, spending time in Alaska, Europe and throughout the continental U.S. They also wintered in Apache Junction, Arizona and enjoyed many lasting friendships. Survivors include his sons, Paul of Salt Lake City and Dennis (Diana) Boyle of Provo; and his daughter, Terre Boyle Lashier of Moab. He greatly enjoyed his five grandsons, JonPaul, Craig, Michael, Aaron and Matthew Boyle of Provo. He was preceded in death by his parents, and Eileen, his wife of 49 years. A graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, August 13, 2004 at 10 a.m. at the Provo City Cemetery, 610 S. State Street. Friends may visit Thursday evening, August 12, 2004 from 6-8 p.m. at Berg Mortuary of Provo, 185 E. Center Street.