Merlyn Phillip “Papa Jack” Boynton.
Merlyn Phillip “Papa Jack” Boynton, passed away December 8, 2021, at the age of 86, at home in Coarsegold, California, with his two daughters by his side. Jack had a very fast battle with cancer that took him from us quickly.
Jack is preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Barbara; his brothers Paul and Don, and his sister Charlotte. He is survived by his brother Dave, his two daughters Jennifer and Kendra, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Jack was born on the first day of 1935 in Bakersfield, California. Throughout his life he lived in Bakersfield, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Pacifica, Santa Rosa, and Coarsegold. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Biola University. Jack served our country in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict, and he was a Vice President of Wells Fargo Bank for many years.
Jack and Barbara’s careers were only a small part of their lives, however. They were actively involved with overseas missions in India and Romania, beginning with their first trip to India in 1974. Jack’s heart for the lost and underprivileged was a dominant force throughout his life and the impact that he had to literally thousands of children around the world will never truly be known.
Jack and Barbara were both deeply involved in churches throughout their lives, and locally were members of Yosemite Lakes Community Church.
Jack also was very involved at the Golden Chain Theatre, having been in many productions after the age of 80, many with Barbara by his side. Jack was an absolute favorite in every cast he participated in, not just because of the wonderful way he performed on stage, but especially the way that he became “Papa Jack” to all in the cast where, once again, his incredibly huge heart would be felt by all of every age.
Jack was a chef, a decorator, a landscape artist and avid gardener. He was a leader, a role model, a wonderful father and husband. His passing will be felt by many for a long time.
A memorial service for Jack will be held at THE GOLDEN CHAIN THEATRE at 42130 Hwy 41 in Oakhurst, California, on February 12, 2022, at 11 a.m.
Following the service, there will be a potluck and time of fellowship.
Forever in our hearts.
