Alyce Boardman

Alyce Mae Boardman, 76, peacefully passed with family by her side on September 27, 2022. Married 57 years to Ian Boardman of Jump River WI together they raised their children Paula and Mark at their home in Garden Prairie. Some of Alyce’s fondest memories are those of visiting her grandparents after church, family dinners and sitting on her grandmother’s lap. She enjoyed the Church hymns and would sing aloud when the mood struck her. Christmas Eve we’d sit by the tree singing her favorite “Oh Little Town of Bethlehem” Mom’s memory bank was full of interesting stories she could remember when every kitten was born, and every friend/family member's birthday. You could rely on her for remembering something that was not so important to you but over time you grew to know how important it was. She shared stories hitching the train from the field in Sheldon WI and traveling to Chicago. She worked the summers in Chicago at the photo lab booth and helped Aunt Amy with the twins Scott and Lisa. She spent many summer days playing down the road from the family Farm at Butches. Butch enjoyed entertaining her and younger sister Barbara. Growing up she helped with chores at home, baling hay and rounding the cows up for milking. She was in the kitchen to assist with family meals and keeping house. Recipe books were some of her favorites, she loved to try new dishes.
Our home while growing up was always open to many who needed a place to stay, too many to name but you know who you are. She worked hard outside the home and took care of her family first. She had a natural artsy talent, she tole painted, oil painted and enjoyed ceramics. She’d volunteer her time at the Kishwaukee grade school in Garden Prairie helping to make props for the school plays. She loved to entertain hosting snowmobile, ice skating outings, Home Interior and Tupperware parties. Mom had a deep appreciation for nature; she enjoyed feeding the birds, gardening and her knowledge of trees and flowers was endless. Friends often would call asking advice on what to plant where. Mom was a good friend, one that you could share a secret with and know that it was safe. She listened with a sincere, non-judgmental heart.  Aside from her Husband Ian, and children Paula (Gary) Kurpeski and Mark (Jennifer) Boardman, and sister Barbara Jackson, her greatest love was for her 5 grandchildren; Parker, Kelsey, Hunter, Colton and Preston. She was extremely proud of each of them. They were the greatest joy in her life. They gave her strength to continue when the days were hard towards the end. They were all near during her final hours. She was strong, even as she drew her final breath. God gave her strength and comforted her. She is at peace because of her we are strong and together will keep our many memories alive.
She was preceded in death by parents Frank and Mary Rukavena, sister Elizabeth Fiedler, Brother Frank Rukavena. Bless the fine folks at Encompass care and Van Matre Rehab which became her home away from home for many of these last years. Thank you all who befriended her, we were lucky to have had this precious lady in our lives. A true Angel on earth never to be forgotten.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Alyce’s honor to DAV (Disabled American Veterans) ( DAV Donation Link ), or Boys Town Research Hospital, ( Boys Town Donation Link ). Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 712 Windsor Road, Loves Park, Illinois 61111.