William Carl Boydstun

It is sad that we must announce that William Carl Boydstun passed away on 12/25/20 surrounded by family. “Bill” was born May 19, 1958 in Grand Junction, CO to William and Ethel Boydstun. He was born, grew up and made the choice to raise his own family here in the Grand Valley.

Bill met his lifelong sweetheart for the first time in his 5th grade classroom. They would become friends and grew up together until a special courtship in college. After marrying the love of his life Diana Lynn Boothe on July 9, 1983, they had three wonderful children Brian William Boydstun, Angela Mae Whitaker, and Melissa Anne Graybeal. This special relationship has created many grandchildren and has been a great example for his kids and countless others.

Bill had an exciting and fun filled life that he enjoyed sharing through the many captivating stories told around the dinner table. As a kid he was always hunting rabbits with his grandfather and parents. This added to the busy childhood of growing up on a farm. He began his employment journey trapping bears with the Division of Wildlife which then transitioned to fighting wildfires in Montana. He then served many years at the Mesa County Sheriff’s office working the jail and ended up retiring from the Division of Youth Corrections after 24 years. His entire public service career mirrored his core beliefs of serving those in need and giving everyone a second chance. You could always count on him showing up with a smile and a smart comment.

Our husband and father was a talker. He would chat with anyone like a friend whether it’s just the guy at the next gas pump or the lifelong buddy. With so much life experiences he was able to connect with anyone on some level. He was an incredibly friendly person and his legacy continues to touch countless lives. He always tried to see the best in people and see past their faults. Being old school, his handshake meant more than any contract and his word was just as sure. He had a strong character devoted to his beliefs of being loyal, honest, kind, patient and being a special friend to all who knew him.

Oh, the fishing stories… Anyone that knew him had either gone fishing with him or heard the fishing story from the weekend before. He took joy in escaping to fish with his buddies Shawn, Jose or spending a day on the lake with his kids and grandkids teaching them how to fish. It was not about how many fish that he caught but about seeing his grandkids faces light up when he had them reel in “their” fish. He was always so kind and patient that lost hooks, salmon eggs falling in the water or letting the worms go in the dirt was just part of the fun. Alaska holds a special place in Bill’s heart. For the past couple years he traveled to Alaska with his wife and friends or family touring in an RV fishing at every place they could stop. Everyone enjoyed these special trips focused on being with great people and reeling in the big fish. Even bears being feet away were not a deterrent for this avid fisherman. We are sure he has already asked about where the good fishing is and how he can get a pole up above.

Diana and Bill spent their lives living a great adventure. Thirty seven years married to be exact and every year for their anniversary they would take turns surprising each other with a new destination focused on each other and their exceptional relationship. They enjoyed everything from hot air balloons in Montrose to spelunking in Glenwood Springs to traveling across the state on the back of a motorcycle and even whitewater rafting. Each time they would cement their love with the new adventure together.

Education was extremely important to him as he proudly received his bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology from Colorado State University. One of his greatest accomplishments was being able to give his children the same education opportunity. Each of us are so appreciative for this blessing.

This great man was dedicated to bettering others. If you knew him, you know the impact he had on your life. He was very hardworking and proud of being able to retire early. He was a very dedicated son and made sure his sweet mother was always taken care of. His greatest honor were the titles of Papa, Grandpa, Dad, Billy and most importantly Lover Lips.

Bill was survived by his wife Diana Boydstun and children: Brian and Kim Boydstun, Angela and Scott Whitaker, and Melissa and Keith Graybeal. His mother Ethel Boydstun and brothers Carl Boydstun and Bob Boydstun. His grandchildren: Tyce, Talyn, Elizabeth, Abigail, Dutton, Benjamin, Jenna, Jaecob, and Joshua. He was preceded in death by his father William Leroy Boydstun and his favorite dog Drey.

The service will be at 10 am on 12/31/20 at The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints located at 3076 E ½ Rd Grand Junction, CO.

Or it can be viewed live at:

http://mywebcast.churchofjesuschrist.org/events/grandjunctioncoloradostake?fbclid=IwAR3JSlVWEQ-ExXyQRALlJ75Oqow4xrHnnlMwY2JNrWvqbFuHvPZIKfdhs34