Wilbur Boynton, age 91, died peacefully at home on September 22, 2023.
Will was born in Lynn, MA, to Wilbur H Boynton and Lila (Green) Boynton and acquired the affectionate nickname of Buster. Following graduation from Lynn English High School in 1949, Will continued to pursue his education at Northeastern University, achieving a BA and MS in mechanical engineering. Will embarked on a career in the then emergent semiconductor industry at Raytheon followed by Microwave Associates in Burlington, MA, as a quality engineer.
In 1958, Will was introduced to his future wife Ann Rich at a Universalist young adult dance. They were married in 1959 and purchased their current home in Melrose and began to raise their family. Will was an active leader of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Greater Lynn, advancing from a member of the young adult social group to serving as treasurer, president, and leading the congregation through the process of rebuilding the church at its current Swampscott location. Will was a member of Wyoming Masonic Lodge in Melrose, MA, and served on the board of Ferry Beach Park Association in Saco, Maine.
Will enjoyed time with his family, traveling extensively across the country in their pop-up camper, walking the meadows of Vermont, and breathing the salt air of Ferry Beach. He had a playful nature and could not stop from dancing when a polka was played. He was undaunted by even the most difficult home repairs and renovations and reveled in the challenges. His patience never failed him. After retirement, Will and Ann traveled globally, visiting far-away places to learn about new cultures and to spend time with their family. He was admired by many friends and colleagues for his can-do attitude, strong moral compass, and embodying the first Unitarian Universalist principle of respect for the inherent worth and dignity of every person.
Will is survived by his beloved wife Ann, his three daughters: Elizabeth and husband Dave Greski of Laconia, NH; Carolyn and husband Kevin Bruen of Orinda, CA, and Susan Bouregy of Centerbrook, CT; and five grandchildren: Conor, Krista, Elizabeth, Zane, and Christopher.
A celebration of Will’s life will be arranged at a later date. Those wishing to honor Will may send donations in lieu of flowers to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Greater Lynn (https://www.uucgl.org/) or Ferry Beach Park Association (https://www.ferrybeach.org/).
Arrangements are under the care of Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main Street, Melrose, MA.
To leave a message of love and support for the family, please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com
