Ernest W. Boyer, Ph.D., a distinguished biochemist and beloved family man, passed away on Oct. 26, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on March 18, 1937, in Oconto, he was the son of Ernest Henry Boyer and Mable Marie (Peters) Boyer. Throughout his life, Ernie exemplified a commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and community service.

Dr. Boyer began his academic journey at North Central College in Naperville, Illinois, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in biology with a minor in chemistry in 1958. He later received his Ph.D. in bacteriology from Iowa State University in 1969. His career spanned several prestigious roles, including medical laboratory instructor in biochemistry at Brooke Army Medical Center from 1959 to 1962, anesthesiology research technician at the Mayo Clinic from 1962 to 1964, and graduate research assistant at Iowa State University’s Department of Bacteriology from 1966 to 1968.

From 1968 to 1977, he served as a research biologist, followed by positions as senior research scientist at Miles Laboratories, Inc. in Elkhart, Indiana (1984-1990), and senior staff scientist at Solvay Enzymes, Inc. (1990-1997). He then became a consultant at Culture Systems, Inc. from 1997 to 2017.

Dr. Boyer made significant contributions to the field of enzymology, developing and implementing various new enzymes. His impressive portfolio includes six patents, 31 trade secrets, 11 publications, and 18 scientific meeting papers.

Dr. Boyer was a member of several professional societies, including the Society of Sigma Xi, Beta Beta Beta Honor Society for Biological Sciences, the Indiana branch of the American Society for Microbiology, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Ernie was a devoted member of Bethel United Methodist Church, where he served as a trustee, Sunday School teacher, and usher from 1978 until illness prevented him from attending in person.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Erna Kathleen (Sprung) Boyer; their infant son, Sidney Scott Boyer; his son, Brent and Brent’s wife Linda; and a sister, Karen and Karen’s husband Jim Argotsinger.

Outside of work (his passion) hobbies included reading, photography and investments.

He is survived by his daughter, Beth (Michael) Wyatt, and his cherished grandchildren, Drew Boyer of Washington, D.C., Lindsay Boyer of Boston, Massachusetts, Toni Wyatt of Boise, Idaho, and Eric Boyer of Midland Park, New Jersey.

Dr. Ernest W. Boyer will be remembered not only for his remarkable contributions to science but also for his kindness, integrity, and unwavering devotion to family and community. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of scientists and all who were fortunate to know him.

A funeral service was held on Friday, Nov. 1, at Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Osceola, Indiana. Burial was at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens with US Army Military honors and assisted by VFW #360.