Boyd Richard Lewer

Boyd Richard Lewer of New Richland, MN passed away at his home, surrounded by family on December 25, 2025.

Born on February 11, 1949, in Waseca, MN, he was the son of Lloyd and Lorraine (Wolfe) Lewer. He grew up in the New Richland area and attended New Richland-Hartland schools. On April 22, 1972, at St Peter Lutheran Church in New Richland, Boyd married Patricia Byrne, the young woman who captured his heart and whom he always joked was the “hard-to-get Otisco gal.” After a few years in Waseca, Boyd and Pat built their own home in rural New Richland, creating a place where they would raise their two children.

Boyd’s working life took him from the Waseca Lumber Yard to Smiths Mill Implement before he struck out on his own as a machinist in his own shop. Boyd’s business quickly became well known among local farmers, who trusted him to weld and repair just about any piece of farm equipment. In 2009, he retired from that work and discovered a new joy in music with his karaoke business, Crazy Boyd’s Karaoke. Known for his love of ’50s and ’60s tunes mixed with classic country, he entertained with a smile and his signature tropical shirts. Over the years, he built a loyal following, with the same crowd of friends and fans faithfully showing up wherever he played. He had a soft spot for his farm cats, always making sure they were well fed and cared for. Over the years, he took in many, and most recently, Chester and Etzel became his faithful sidekicks. He was a long-time member of St Peter Lutheran Church in Otisco, MN.

Boyd’s family was the center of his world. In their early years together, the family enjoyed simple day trips, and Sunday evenings were always reserved for pizza night. Every Fourth of July, they carried on a cherished tradition, cruising to the North Morristown parade in the family convertible. Boyd was a constant presence at his children’s events, always with the video recorder in hand, capturing every moment from start to finish so the memories could last a lifetime. Becoming a grandpa was a treasure beyond measure. He proudly supported his four grandsons in all their activities, teased them with affectionate nicknames, and cherished their visits, content to watch them laugh and play together.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Pat; children, Alissa (Michael) Bowman of Ellendale and Justin (Amy Jo) Lewer of Waseca, grandsons, Evan and Alex Bowman and Jaxson and Jayson Lewer; siblings, Blaine (Judy) Lewer of New Richland, Denise (Tom) Chamberlain of Brooksville, FL, and Bonnie (Gary) Pfeifer of Janesville; sisters-in-law, Judy Thompson of New Richland and Cindy (Allen) Corcoran of Prior Lake; along with nieces, nephews, and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Don and Leone Peterson; sisters-in-law, Connie Byrne and Kim Motzko; and brother-in-law, Gary Thompson.

A private family service will be held for Boyd and interment will be at St Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery in New Richland.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Boyd’s family.