1944
Ian
2025
Ian Boardman
July 19, 1944 — April 16, 2025
Ian Lawrence Boardman, 80, of Garden Prairie, Illinois, peacefully passed away on April 16, 2025, surrounded many of his grandchildren. On September 4, 1965, Ian married the love of his life, Alyce Rukavena of Sheldon, Wisconsin. Together, they raised two children, Paula and Mark, and built a life filled with love, laughter, and hard work. Alyce preceded him in death in September 2022. In recent years, Ian was lovingly cared for by his eldest daughter Rebecca Pusick, who came to live with him.
Born on July 19, 1944, in Jump River, Wisconsin, Ian was a proud, strong man with an infectious, unmistakable laugh. He lived in Garden Prairie for many years, where he made his mark not only as a dedicated Welder for Abar Ipsen, but also through countless side jobs welding, fixing small gas engines, running parts —always keeping busy, splitting wood, and lending a helping hand to whoever needed him.
Dad had many passions. He loved riding his motorcycle, collecting model airplane engines, fishing, hunting, he maintained an extensive collection of lanterns, fishing poles, chainsaws, firearms—and flashlights. So many flashlights, in fact, that the family always joked he must've been afraid of the dark, as Mom would lovingly say. He couldn't pass up a bargain, whether he needed it or not—usually not.
Growing up, some of our fondest memories with Dad were spent outdoors—riding minibikes and snowmobiles, laughing and racing around the yard or through the fields. He had a real love for boxing and baseball, and he enjoyed helping coach Little League in Garden Prairie. He also volunteered his time at the Garden Prairie chicken broast, always happy to help and catch up with friends and neighbors.
Dad trusted everyone. We remember him picking up a hitchhiker and bringing them to our dinner table without a second thought, always believing in the good in people. His kindness, humor, and deep appreciation for the simple joys in life made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Though he was hard of hearing, we know he heard the Lord calling him home on April 16, 2025. Cremation was performed on Good Friday, and his ashes will be spread in the forests of northern Wisconsin where he grew up—a place he always held close to his heart.
Ian is survived by his children, Paula (Gary) Kurpeski, Mark (Jennifer) Boardman and Rebecca Pusick as well as his cherished grandchildren, who brought him endless pride and joy. Jonathon Boss, Adam Boss, Parker Boardman, Kelsey Boardman, Hunter Kurpeski, Annalisa Pusick, Jesse Pusick, Colton Kurpeski and Preston Boardman.
We know he can still hear us today when we laugh and share our many memories of him. His unforgettable laugh, cherished stories, and warm presence will always live on in our hearts.
Love you, Daddy. You will never be forgotten.
Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com
Born on July 19, 1944, in Jump River, Wisconsin, Ian was a proud, strong man with an infectious, unmistakable laugh. He lived in Garden Prairie for many years, where he made his mark not only as a dedicated Welder for Abar Ipsen, but also through countless side jobs welding, fixing small gas engines, running parts —always keeping busy, splitting wood, and lending a helping hand to whoever needed him.
Dad had many passions. He loved riding his motorcycle, collecting model airplane engines, fishing, hunting, he maintained an extensive collection of lanterns, fishing poles, chainsaws, firearms—and flashlights. So many flashlights, in fact, that the family always joked he must've been afraid of the dark, as Mom would lovingly say. He couldn't pass up a bargain, whether he needed it or not—usually not.
Growing up, some of our fondest memories with Dad were spent outdoors—riding minibikes and snowmobiles, laughing and racing around the yard or through the fields. He had a real love for boxing and baseball, and he enjoyed helping coach Little League in Garden Prairie. He also volunteered his time at the Garden Prairie chicken broast, always happy to help and catch up with friends and neighbors.
Dad trusted everyone. We remember him picking up a hitchhiker and bringing them to our dinner table without a second thought, always believing in the good in people. His kindness, humor, and deep appreciation for the simple joys in life made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Though he was hard of hearing, we know he heard the Lord calling him home on April 16, 2025. Cremation was performed on Good Friday, and his ashes will be spread in the forests of northern Wisconsin where he grew up—a place he always held close to his heart.
Ian is survived by his children, Paula (Gary) Kurpeski, Mark (Jennifer) Boardman and Rebecca Pusick as well as his cherished grandchildren, who brought him endless pride and joy. Jonathon Boss, Adam Boss, Parker Boardman, Kelsey Boardman, Hunter Kurpeski, Annalisa Pusick, Jesse Pusick, Colton Kurpeski and Preston Boardman.
We know he can still hear us today when we laugh and share our many memories of him. His unforgettable laugh, cherished stories, and warm presence will always live on in our hearts.
Love you, Daddy. You will never be forgotten.
Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ian Boardman, please visit our flower store.
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