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Bret Boyer
Bret Boyer
Denver, CO
Bret Boyer of Denver, Colorado, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026. He was born on May 24, 1965, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to James and Sandra Boyer. Bret graduated from Kennedy High School and went on to earn a degree in Economics from Cornell College.
He is survived by his mother, Sandy Boyer of Cedar Rapids; his brother Barry (Gilda) Boyer of Cedar Rapids; his nephew Erik (Ashley) Boyer of Cedar Rapids; his niece Lauren Boyer of Chicago; and three stepchildren, Tazia (Mandy) Heyl-Gilbert of Dallas, Texas, Jake (Cora) Heusing of Anamosa, Iowa and Greg (Shannon) Heyl of Haughton, Louisiana.
After graduation, Bret worked for several companies, including Lil’ Drug, Cedar Rapids Incorporated, and finally Meridian Tool, where he served as Director of Operations.
Due to a series of unfortunate events, Bret found himself living at the Crossroads Shelter in Denver, where he battled his addiction to alcohol, which had taken a heavy toll on his life. During this time, he committed himself to serving other homeless individuals through daily acts of kindness. Bret formed many friendships, supported others in their struggles, and found purpose in volunteering with Christ Body Ministries alongside mentor Pastor Paul Gonzales. He discovered peace in feeding the homeless and encouraging others to regain the dignity often lost in battles with addiction and homelessness.
Bret was a generous, gentle, witty, and charismatic man, deeply loved by family and friends. He left everyone feeling uplifted for having known him. To those who knew him, Bret was an everyday sort of guy willing to lend a hand without expectation in return.
Despite his passing, our family is inspired by his dedication to serving the less fortunate. He showed us how to remain steadfast in our commitment to others through his own struggles.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Salvation Army Crossroads Center, especially his Case Manager, Sean Krangle, and Christ Body Ministries for their unwavering support of Bret. Donations in his name can be made to the Willis Dady Homeless Shelter in Cedar Rapids.
A memorial service will be held in Cedar Rapids in March, and also at The Crossroads Center with the date to be determined.
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