Francis “Frank” Boyer, 85, of Jackson, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2011, at the Veteran’s Home in Luverne. He was born in New Richland, on Jan.19, 1926, one of 12 children to John and Helen (Sanftner) Boyer. When Frank was in the eighth grade the family moved to Alden. He graduated high school there in 1943. He is a World War II Navy veteran and served our country aboard a ship in the South Pacific. After the war, Frank moved to Albert Lea and was united in marriage to Margaret Peterson on March 21, 1950. During the first five years of their marriage, they farmed near Albert Lea; and in 1955 he attended the Minnesota Highway Patrol Academy at Rosemount. Frank was the first highway patrolman assigned to the Jackson area; where he remained for his entire 30 year career – a man dedicated to his community, family, and fellow patrolmen. He attained the rank of station sergeant, and in 1980 was Trooper of the Year in the Marshall District; and also served as District Union Rep. for the Minnesota State Troopers Association. After his retirement from the patrol in 1985, he worked as a water patrol deputy and bailiff for the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department.

Frank was a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church, serving on several committees; he was a lifelong member of the American Legion; and he enjoyed woodworking as a hobby. He and Margaret were well known for many years at area craft shows. Frank further enjoyed golfing, fishing, spending time with family and traveling with Margaret.

Frank is survived by his wife, Margaret of Jackson; his seven children: Steve (Val) Boyer, of Avondale, Ariz., Julie (Ernie) Barta of Pisek, N.D., Pam (Doug) Elbers of Fairmont, Chris (Jim) Winter of Coeur D Alene, Idaho, Mary (Rob) Wedeking of Battle Lake, Mike (Teresa) Boyer of Jackson, and Scott Boyer of Plymouth; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two brothers: Lyle and Walter Boyer, both of Albert Lea; and one sister, Margery Bice of Mankato.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers: Art, Richard, John, Charlie and Willie, all of Albert Lea; and three sisters: Dorothy Boyer and Lou Bergen of Albert Lea, and Anna Petersen of Kasson.

Blessed be the memory of Francis Michael Boyer.