LOWER LAKE, Calif. – Milton Loy “Bud” Boyce peacefully passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2014 at his home in Lower Lake.

Born in Kelseyville, Calif., on Aug. 5, 1924, to Russell and Enid Boyce, Bud spent his youth working and playing along the shores of Clearlake Oaks.

A 1942 graduate of Lower Lake High School, Bud enlisted in the United State Navy and served as a Fighting Seabee in the South Pacific during World War II.

Upon his return home in 1946, Bud went to work for his father’s new business, Clear Lake Machine Shop.

Bud spent the next 65 years fabricating everything from trailers to fire engines, and repairing anything that came through the doors.

Along with his father, Bud was a founding member of the Lower Lake Volunteer Fire Department. Dedicating over 50 years, he served every position including fire captain, chief, and later commissioner.

When he wasn’t welding or serving his community, Bud enjoyed the outdoors. An avid sportsman, Bud could be found fishing Eagle Lake with friends, deer hunting his beloved Morgan Valley ranch with family, and even abalone diving to the age of 87.

Bud was preceded in death in 2005 by Barbara, his wife of 31 years. He is survived by his sons Michael Boyce and Richard Boyce, and daughter Lynn Anderson; along with step-children Laura Hutchinson, Robert Davis, Debbie Davis and Sherry Hawk. Bud was adored by his 18 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In every facet of his life Bud was a cornerstone of the community.

On Friday, July 11, a private family funeral procession will take him through Lower Lake, past Clear Lake Machine Shop and his home.

The public is invited to a memorial gathering at the Lower Lake Brick Hall on Friday, July 11, at 11 a.m.

The family requests that donations be made to the Lower Lake High School Football Fundraising Association, P.O. Box 97, Lower Lake, CA 95457.

Bud was loved and admired by everyone whose life he touched. His family will be forever grateful for his love and inspiration.

His bright eyes and smile will always be etched in our hearts, the words “Hi kid!” echoing in our ears.