Obituary of Alan Boyer

ALAN BOYER

On December 23, Alan Boyer, age 59, made his journey ‘home’ after a short battle with cancer.  Alan began his earthly journey on February 11, 1959 in South Elmsall, West Yorkshire.  He shared his life and all its joys and challenges with his loving spouse, Anne, for 34 years.  He was a proud father to James and loved Savannah, James’ partner.

He was a graduate of High Melton College of Education and Sheffield University, South Yorkshire. Alan went on to gain additional qualifications in acoustics, financial services, business, and holistic health care.

Alan learned to play the cornet at age eleven and quickly became an accomplished player.  He played for Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Junior and Senior Brass Bands and many high level bands in the Yorkshire area.  When Alan moved to North Yorkshire to start his teaching career he decided to move from playing to conducting.

He was in demand as a clinician and conductor and enjoyed over twenty years of high level banding - with Anne always at his side. 

Alan, Anne and James moved from England in 1998 and enjoyed being part of the St Peter Parish community, where he served for many years in the music ministry. He was a proud supporter of the American Fork Band program.

The Boyers founded the Utah Premiere Brass (UPB) in 2000, and Alan was the band’s first musical director.  He is remembered for his creative programing, razor sharp wit, and insistence on everyone giving their very best.

One of Alan’s greatest achievements in his later years was acceptance as a sovereign member of the Great Cherokee Nation. 

Alan was the son of Stanley and Irene Boyer, and brother to Michael and Carol.  Alan was preceded in death by his mother and sister.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St Peter Parish, American Fork on Saturday, January 12 at 11:00am.  Alan’s cremains will be interred in England in the family burial plot.

Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made to the American Fork Band program.  The link is located on the band website: www.americanforkband.com (under “Fundraising and sponsors”)