John Arthur

Boyce

John Boyce, 91, of Martin, Michigan, passed away on November 13, 2026. Born on September 12, 1935, John lived a life defined by quiet devotion to his family, a curious scientific mind, and an adventurous spirit that carried him far beyond the beaten path.

John served as a medic in the United States Army and taught chemistry at Mattawan High School for more than 30 years. He also taught driver’s education to generations of students and farmed his land until he was nearly 80. Whether in the classroom, behind the wheel, or working the land, John brought practical knowledge, determination, and a belief in figuring things out.

Nowhere was that determination more evident than in the remote wilderness of northern Ontario. John had a passion for solo canoe trips along rivers accessible only by floatplane. On one memorable trip, his canoe broke in half between remote First Nations villages. With remarkable ingenuity, he melted a rubber rope he happened to have with him to mend the canoe and continue his journey.

Nobody could scout out a lake along Canada’s uncharted back roads quite like John. A beaver dam blocking a logging road was simply an obstacle to clear, and knee-deep black mud was worth crossing with a canoe if it led to a lake usually reached only by fly-in fishermen. These adventures earned him the affectionate family nickname “Indiana John.” His favorite place to fish was the waters of Lake Superior near Rossport, Ontario, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Though John was not a religious man, he approached life’s greatest questions with curiosity and an open mind. In his own quiet, thoughtful way, he explored the connections between science and faith, reflecting on the mysteries of how life began and what gives it purpose and meaning.

Stoic and wise, John rarely displayed his emotions openly, but his devotion to his family was unwavering. He was completely supportive and would do anything for them at any time. He once poked fun at people whose bumper stickers or license plates invited others to “Ask me about my grandchildren”-until he had grandchildren of his own.

With Isabella and Jonah, a softer side of John found its expression. He loved watching Curious George with his grandbabies on his lap and helped introduce them to fishing, wild blueberries, and the wonder of Canada’s island lakes. Through those shared moments, he passed along his curiosity, resourcefulness, and love of the outdoors.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Alice M. Boyce, and his son, Timothy Boyce. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Kathleen and Paul Mundo; his grandchildren, Isabella and Jonah Mundo; and his daughter-in-law, Denise Boyce.

John leaves a legacy of devotion to family, a love of adventure, and a deep respect for the preservation of forests, wildlife, and waterways. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests donations in his memory to Rainbow Falls Provincial Park through Ontario Parks. A donation form is available here.

In place of a formal funeral service, his immediate family will scatter his ashes at his favorite fishing spot in Rossport, Ontario, where he can be free to enjoy his next great adventure, surrounded by the wild beauty and endless waters he loved.