John William Boya, age 77, passed away Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at his residence in Hayward, WI. He was born on January 3, 1948 in Superior, WI, the son of William and Esther (Smalen) Boya. He was united in marriage to Joanne Marie Ree on March 17, 1978 in Superior, WI, and as John would say, “we had 46 years of love.”

John was a graduate of Superior High School where he was the goalie for the hockey team. He attended the University of Wisconsin Superior. He had a great career as an electrical lineman for Superior Water and Light, now Minnesota Power. Following in his father’s footsteps, John coached his son’s hockey teams in Superior. John enjoyed life in the Northwoods, both fishing and deer hunting with his big group of friends. He also enjoyed golfing and loved listening to music. John was very generous and a joy to be around and loved meeting up with old friends at his second home, The Anchor Bar.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joanne Marie Boya of Hayward; his stepchildren, Scott (Stephanie) Burhans of Cottage Grove, MN and Lisa Marie Hildago-Burhans of Albuquerque, NM; his grandson, Asher Hidalgo; his sisters, Marian Rosted of Mahtomedi, MN and Karen (Jerry) Aho of Superior, WI; his longtime best friend, Richard Lowney; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his loving Golden Retriever, Trapper.

A memorial gathering will be announced at a later date.

Last Update: Jan 31, 2025 1:16 pm CST