Susan D. Boyson

ROCHESTER - Susan Boyson, born Susan Discederia Gullekson, passed away Saturday morning from congestive heart failure in St. Marys hospital. Born in Crookston, Minnesota, Susan grew up on a farm in Beltrami with her father Virgil, mother Leona, and brother Elmo, all of whom preceded her in death. She was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 11 and her heart disease was a complication resulting from it. Graduated from St. Lukes Nurses School in Fargo, North Dakota in 1963, Susan worked for several years as a nurse in Red Wing, Minnesota until 1967 when she became a full-time homemaker. Even though she was not expected to live a full life when she was diagnosed with diabetes, Susan recently celebrated her 69th birthday on September 16th, and eight days prior, her 48th wedding anniversary. She is survived by her husband Robert Boyson, two children (Amy Boyson French and Aaron Boyson), a daughter-in-law (Jennifer Boyson) and four grandchildren (Jacob and Rachele French, Mitchell and Tessa Boyson). Susan worked tirelessly to keep herself in good physical health and doing so extended her life.Her family will be forever indebted to her willingness to sacrifice, even a slice of bacon, so that she could be with us for as long as she was. Susan leaves an indelible footprint on this earth because of her tireless generosity, deep compassion for helping those in need, and fierce loyalty to her immediate and extended family. She ministered closely, intensely, and warmly to people she knew well and people she just met. She was both salt and light for God to so many people, and she will be missed. Her faith in Jesus was like a well from which she drank constantly. It touched many at Bethany United Methodist Church, where she served for more than 40 years. She sang, played piano, directed choir, and eventually became Director of Worship. Her holiday music and theatrical productions were attended by many in the broader Rochester area. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 11:00 AM at Bethany United Methodist Church, 1835 19thAve. NW, in Rochester with Rev. Dr. Wes Gabel officiating. All who wish to attend are welcome. Visitation will be held from 4-7 P.M. on Friday, October 7, 2011 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home with a prayer service starting at 7 P.M.There will also be a visitation an hour prior to the service on Saturday at church. Memorials in honor of Susan may be sent to either The American Diabetes Association or Bethany United Methodist Church.