John Boyce

John (Jack) Boyce, age 94 years, died peacefully at his home in Carlsbad, California on Friday, May 28, 2021, surrounded by his family. Marguerite (Mig), Jack’s wife of 71 years, his seven children, their spouses, his grandchildren and great grandchildren were his greatest love. He was most proud of his family, Irish heritage (county Donegal), and strong Catholic faith. Jack was quiet and witty, kind and generous, loved to read and travel. A few of his life’s highlights were meeting his beautiful Italian wife, family vacations to Popponesset Beach, Lake Tahoe, Ireland and meeting the Pope in Rome, Italy.

Born on January 14, 1927 in Philadelphia PA, Jack’s adventurous youth was spent in Bayside, NY with his four siblings and parents. He loved the outdoors, especially the bay, ocean and mountains. He was gifted athletically and musically, singing in numerous choirs. He loved the Brooklyn Dodgers and later the Padres. Jack played golf and tennis in his younger years and was walking and swimming with the La Costa Glen Aquamen well into his 90’s. He was smart, wise, humble and a risk taker.

Jack served in the Navy during WWII. He attended Manhattan College, earning an electrical engineering degree while swimming competitively and being captain of the Manhattan College swim team. Jack began his career as a project manager for Hazeltine Corp. NY & Kearfott System/Singer General Precision, NJ before moving his family to Solana Beach, CA in 1968. He was a pioneer in cable television development in north county San Diego starting North County Cable; was a partner in Lomas Santa Fe land development; a founder of Rancho Santa Fe Thrift Association; and ultimately Vice President of Financial Affairs at the University of San Diego (USD) for 17 years - his favorite job. In retirement, Jack served on the Board of Trustees at USD as his prowess with finance and investments was recognized.

Community service was an integral part of his life providing financial and investment advice in various capacities. He advised the Catholic Diocese of San Diego; participated on numerous Catholic parish school boards including Cathedral Catholic High School; was a leader in the Catholic organization Knights of the Holy Sepulchre; San Diego Hospice, Esperanza International, and the Endowment Fund Committee for the Old Globe Theater in San Diego, among others.

Boyce is survived by his wife Marguerite, sister, Mary Boyce, a member of the Maryknoll Sisters; and his seven children Jack (Terri); Jim (Ellen); Jeanne (Johnny); Bobby; Michael (Pamela); Patrick (Anne); Kathleen (Tom); as well as eight grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Predeceased and awaiting his arrival in heaven are his parents William Boyce, Margaret Boyce, his brother Bill Boyce, Father Jim Boyce and sister Ann Boyce Bukovchik.

A Mass and Celebration of Life in honor of Jack will be held on Friday, Nov. 5, 2021 at 11:00am at St. James Parish, 625 S. Nardo Ave., Solana Beach, CA. Remembrance donations may be made in Jack's name to:

The Elizabeth Hospice, the University of San Diego or a charity of your choice.