J. Boyer Jarvis

June 1, 1923 - March 28, 2019
J. Boyer Jarvis

In Loving Memory

I had the honor of serving as Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of Utah from 2000 to 2011. Boyer had also served in that position, though by my time it took more than one of us to cover all the responsibilities that Boyer had handled himself. The highest compliment that Senior Vice President David Pershing could give me during my years was that something I'd done was the best job he'd seen since Boyer Jarvis was AVP. I treasure those compliments.
Susan Olson
salt lake city, UT
We met Boyer at our first PFLAG meeting in October 1999. We were new "raw" PFLAG parents. With support from Gary and Joe Watts and Boyer and many others we began to navigate this new normal. I have so much respect for Boyer and his continuous commitment to make things better for others. He was a remarkable man. As we were leaving the beautiful services for him today, several people were commenting that Boyer made you want to be a better person. Thank you for sharing him with us. Shauna and Lynn Westberg
Shauna Westberg
salt lake city, UT
I had the great privilege of joining Boyer at Martha Stewart’s regular luncheon for a time. I was young and didn’t initially realize what a giant in the community I was sharing waffles with. Boyer always made sure to introduce me to the guests as though I was someone important. He was so gracious. His strong, booming voice was easy on the ears and always sincere, thoughtful and used in service to others. It’s an honor to have known him and to have been in his presence. Our deepest condolences to Pat, Seth, Nathan and MaryBeth. With Love, Jason, Holly and Harper Yocom
Jason Yocom
salt lake city, UT
Pat -- One of my wonderful mentors was Frank McKean, who in turn was mentored by Boyer. I was heartsick to see Boyer's obituary, because he was such a stalwart for so many who needed staunch advocacy beyond their own ability to defend against prejudice, want, and ignorance. He was the better angel, personified. I am so very grateful for the friendship he extended to me, and for his steady and constant determination that any group or effort of which he was a part should be about the business of "doing the right thing." In Boyer's mind, there was no difference between the right thing and the smart thing. Boyer was a brilliant intellect, and thank heavens, the word "expedient" was not part of his vocabulary or character. Part of the reason the obituary still depresses me is that I'm not at all sure he has a surviving peer. I deeply regret that I won't be able to attend the memorial service next week, but I want you to know that you and Boyer are friends for whom I have great admiration and affection.
David R. Irvine
bountiful, UT
Dear Pat - Just a note to say we are sorry for your loss. We didn't know Boyer, but he sounds like a wonderful man. Thinking of you and remembering the good times we had together on the Vulga River cruise in 1992. Take care - Ann and Earl Harmer
Ann Harmer Jepsn and Earl Harmer Jr.
draper, UT