Merle Henry Boy, 72, died Saturday, February 6, 2010, at Rapid City Regional Hospital following a short illness of pancreatic cancer.

Visitation will be Tuesday from noon until 9:00 pm at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Wednesday, February 10, 2010, at Grace Lutheran Church in Sturgis with Pastor Michael Fox officiating. Burial will be at Black Hills National Cemetery with military honors by the Sturgis Honor Guard.

Merle was born November 16, 1937, to Clarence and Elva (Joens) at home in rural Hartford, SD. He entered the US Navy in November, 1955, and served honorably until November, 1958. He saw service aboard the USS Worcester and the USS Black in the Far East with his home base in San Diego, CA.

He was united in marriage to Rita Buls of Sioux Falls, SD, on November 28, 1958. They recently celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary.

He was employed by the DOT out of Sioux Falls for thirteen years before becoming Meade County Highway Superintendent in 1973. He retired from Hills Materials Company in October 2002 after 23 years of service.

He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church ELCA of Sturgis, SD, serving several times on their church council and was a member of Men of Grace. He, along with his wife and grandson, sang in the church choir. He was also a member of Sturgis Golden "K" Kiwanis Club, having just served his term as President and the Western Dakota Antique Club.

Survivors include his wife Rita of Sturgis; two sons Daniel (Sheri) of Whitewood and Christian of Rome, GA.; one daughter Beth (John) Bowman of Pierre, SD; grandchildren Sandi Boy, Michelle and Nick Shryock, Kevin Boy, Corey and Debbie Bowman and Lisa Bowman; and great grandchildren Aisha Plaggemeyer and Vance Shryock. He is also survived by two brothers Loren (Sue) and Harlan (Betty) and their family all of Hartford, SD.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and a stillborn daughter.

A memorial has been established to the Cancer Treatment Transportation Fund at Rapid City Regional Hospital or whatever charity is near and dear to your hearts.

Blessed be the memory of Merle Henry Boy.