Carlyle "Carl" Boyden

Carlyle “Carl” Francis Boyden was called by the Lord to join His Heavenly Choir at 5:32 AM on August 6th, 2016.
Born June 14th, 1924, Carl lived a long, full and blessed life.
He grew up in Highland Park, a suburb of Los Angeles, CA and attended St. Ignatius Middle School. He graduated in 1942 from Benjamin Franklin High School where he earned letters in the gymnastic sports of pommel horse, vault and parallel bars. During a city wide high school tournament, Carl placed second in Indian Club competition.
After WWII started, Carl enlisted in the Navy; he reported to duty December 28th, 1942 and was assigned to a wooden minesweeper as a Motor Mechanic 2nd Class. During the invasion of Guadaline he was so busy throwing danbouys (floating markers to guide landing craft) that he didn’t have time to be scared. Due to complications from a broken arm he suffered at 8 years old, Carl was taken off active duty and stationed at a floating dry dock in New Orleans. He was then sent up to Rockford, IL to study at Woodward Governor.
While in Rockford, Carl met his first wife Shirley Baumgard. His first daughter Bonnie Marie was born in 1946, followed by his second daughter, Melody Ann in 1949. Carl and Shirley were divorced in 1951.
Carl then met Maryann Gillette; they were wed September 9th, 1952 and celebrated 40 years of marriage. This union gave him a son, Courtney Allen and his third daughter, Robin Lynn.
In 1986 he retired from J. L. Clark Manufacturing Co. after working for 37 years. He started as a die-setter and rose to Night Superintendant. He enjoyed working at Clarks and made many friends over the years. Carl regularly attended the Retiree Breakfast held every Wednesday morning.
He was an avid bowler, biked throughout his neighborhood and took up the game of golf after he retired – Sinnissippi Golf Course was his favorite haunt. Carl and his buddy Chester, a puppy he found, walked all over the Rolling Green area and beyond. He met several good friends on these trips. Carl enjoyed working around the house and especially in the yard. He loved being outdoors; couldn’t wait to get outside and do something – even if it was just pulling a few weeds.
When he wasn’t outside, Carl spent his time watching old sitcoms (especially those from the 60’s and 70’s), westerns, comedies, mysteries and war movies. He followed the Cubbies and spent many an afternoon or evening taking in a game – unless they were losing in which case he found something better to do, like take a nap.
Though he has said he didn’t like books when he was growing up, Carl read a variety of subjects - his favorite was history, above all American history.
Music was another of his enjoyments, especially music from the 40’s and 50’s. Blessed with a beautiful voice, he regaled his family and friends often. He so impressed a coworker she asked him to sing at her wedding. As a long time member of St. Edwards Church, he participated in the choir for many years.
Carl’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was happiest at a gathering – whether a holiday, birthday, reunions or just visiting. He took great pleasure in travelling across country to spend time with his relatives. Growing up surrounded by a loving family, he passed on that love to his children, who have continued that legacy.
Carl joins in everlasting peace his parents Carl Nelson and Anna Mary (Speikers); his brother Kenneth (Nikki) and sisters Marietta (Tom) Rockenbach and Leona (Bud) Hogue; his beloved wife Maryann; and his special buddy Chester.
Those left to mourn and honor him are his children: Bonnie Bichl, Melody Loftis, Courtney “Corky” and Kim Boyden, and Robin Boyden; his grandchildren Mitzi and Tim Herber, Scott and Nancy Preston, Kurt and Tamila Preston, Micheal Bichl, Kathy and Joe Morton, Heather and Casey Perkins, Shane Bichl, Nick Boyden and Hillery Boyden; great grandchildren Aron, Tricia, Jade, Kayla, Dakota and Sklyar; and numerous Great great grandchildren. Survived by him are several nieces and nephews – Jim and Judy Rockenbach were very special to him. Special friends Dick and Mary Summers, his Wednesday breakfast buddies, his Friday brunch group – all the people he met were held by him in his heart.
We who knew Carl will miss him. His smile, his laugh, his voice, his humor, his stories, his advice – most of all we will miss his love. He was always there for us – to listen to us, to offer a word of praise or assistance. Kind, gracious and gentlemanly, Carl exemplified the type of person who goes above and beyond to make sure his family and friends were provided for. The riches he bestowed are priceless. He loved and was greatly loved in return. In lieu of flowers memorials to Serenity Hospice, 1658 S. IL Route 2, Oregon, IL 61061.
Thanks, Robin