Dempster A. Boyd, Sr. Dempster was born August 14th, 1920 in Oakland, CA. He passed away on Nov. 16, 2001 in Puyallup, WA. Dempster grew up in Santa Maria, CA and studied Medicine at Hancock College. He spent his life in the medical field. He was a champion swimmer in college and had swam against Johnny Weismiller, the great Olympic Champion. He was a Pharmacist Mate in the Navy during WWII and was in Guadal Canal with the Marine Corp and many other campaigns during the war. Dempster served with Pappy Boyingtons, VMF 214, Black Sheep Squadron as a medic also. When WWII was over he joined the Army where he continued in the medical field as a Chief Warrant Officer. After 20 years of service he retired at Fort Lewis. He then began a new career with the State of Washington with the Department of Social and Health Services and retired again after 17 years. He was an active and loyal member of the Elks Lodge 1450 of Puyallup, WA. He enjoyed the Elks and his wonderful friendships that he had there. He had a passion for model trains. He is survived by his wife, Virginia, who was his high school sweetheart and was married 60 years. He was a very loving and devoted husband. Other survivors include his daughter, Leslie Baker (Boyd); two sons, Dempster Jr. and Robert; also 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. A prayer vigil will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 20th from 2:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Powers Funeral Home (320 W. Pioneer Ave., Puyallup). Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Nov. 21st at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. After the ceremony in the chapel, a graveside ceremony at Mt. View Cemetery (4100 Steilacoom Blvd. SW, Lakewood) will begin at 12:30 p.m. Ft. Lewis has provided an Honor Guard that will perform full military honors. A reception will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the Puyallup Elks Lodge at 27th and Main St. in Puyallup. Any donations to Dempster should be given to the Elks Children Therapy program, care of the Puyallup Elks. Pub Date: 11/19/2001 Tacoma News Tribune