Stephen Boyer peacefully passed away on December 5, 2022 in Danville, California. Stephen was one of the kindest, most giving, and loving human beings I have ever encountered. He is survived by his loving mother Helen (Honey) Boyer, sister Valerie Zalecki, and cousin Patty-Ann Ashlaw, as well as numerous friends. His sense of humor, style, friendship and laughter will be missed. He has left friends in almost every state, many of whom he met annually at a school in Utah. Friendships forged there by him extend outward like ripples in a pond. He touched so many, many lives. Each life enriched with his warmth and understanding and love. A truly remarkable man. Not surprising that he chose one of the helping professions for his job. He was a pharmacist for many years and finished his career as a regional pharmacy manager. As a pharmacist, he was one of those who would listen to his patients; often delivering meds in person if they were unable to themselves. As a manager, he was the boss that you wished you had. His care for his fellow man was noticeable in his greeting, whether it was simply an optimistic good morning, a firm handshake, or a loving hug. I will miss those the most. Life was not a picnic for Stephen, he struggled with the onset of Parkinson disease which ravaged him for the past decade of his life.In memory of Stephen, in lieu of money, or flowers, we ask that you smile at a stranger, help a friend, hug someone you love, whisper a prayer of thanks, be grateful and smile...for these are the things Stephen has left us with.
Fred and “Steve"
"At around 2:15 this morning, My first sponsor and dear friend Stephen Boyer passed away. To say he affected my life is an understatement . He was the most loving man I have ever met . . Today the world is lessened and my heart is heavy.❤️” Fred
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For over 20 years, Stephen attended, presented, and was a mentor to many at the APhA Institute on Substance Use Disorders, in Salt Lake City, Utah (Formerly: known as the University of Utah School on Alcoholism and other drug dependencies). Below are what some of the Alums of the Institute wrote when hearing of his passing:
*Thoughts and prayers for a true shining light in the pharmacist recovery arena. When Stephen first began attending the Utah School, he would go on long runs at the end of each conference day. He always had a smile on his face and was just plain fun to be around! Parkinsons took him all too quickly. He made a huge impression on all of us and every student and pharmacist who attended the School during Stephen's active years is likely still thinking about Cheerios donut husbandry. Rest in Peace, Stephen with the full knowledge that you have had such a positive impact on so many people. - Jeff Baldwin
"Along with John Sauer, Steve was the most welcoming when I first arrived in 2011. His encouragement, humor, and kindness will never be forgotten. Made me feel like I belonged instantly. Rest well my friend - you’ve earned it." Jake Nichols
"Steven was one of those presenters/mentors during my first few years of the Utah School that I resonated with.I am so sad." Keith Marciniak
"Steve was one of the guys that I instantly looked up to when I start first started coming to Utah. He is in my prayers."Ed Schneider
"Stephen made a tremendous impact on so many lives. I will miss you my friend. Until we meet again!" Kevin R. Rich
"Mentor. Role model. Friend. We lost a good man. RIP brother!" Dave Merk
"Thank you for your kindness and smile !!!! RIP my friend!!!" Merrill Norton
"COCO PUFFS! RIP, Dear Stephen." Pierre
"His contributions to Utah Alumni and students can’t be quantified. He made a tremendous impact on me and was always so kind and encouraging to all. I have missed him and will continue to miss him. Stephen was always so kind to me with helpful suggestions and encouragement. There are many from Utah I miss and now another is added to the list." Michael Moné
"Steve made a huge impact on everyone he met. He was a true inspiration to many. Until we meet again…" Debra Wood