James A. Boyd

James A. Boyd, age 89, of Portage, passed away Friday, March 27, 2026, at home with his family by his side. He was born May 13, 1936, in Calumet City, Illinois, to the late Arthur and Fern (Brown) Boyd.

Jim lived for his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose presence anchored generations. He was a former member of the Portage Masonic Lodge, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and the Izaak Walton League.

Following the Korean War, James proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the occupation of Okinawa and was honorably discharged as a Corporal. He carried that same discipline and pride into his lifelong work as a millwright. Known as an adventurous tradesman, a natural storyteller, and a friend to many, James took great pride in his craft. Alongside his brother Palmer, he was a founding member of Local 1043, now Local 1076, and deeply valued the brotherhood of his fellow millwrights.

In 1978, James purchased land south of what was then Beta Steel, where he built Treasure Chest Marina and later opened Sunset Bar and Grill. What began as a business became something more: a gathering place for steelworkers, tradespeople, and mill staff. It was a place where stories were told, friendships were forged, and the beer was always cold.

James is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Boyd of Portage; six children, James (Bobbi Kay) Boyd of Chesterton, Thomas (Dawn) Boyd of Wanatah, Judith Kender of Mitchell, Robert Boyd of Portage, Johnathan (Lydia) Boyd of Hobart, and Matthew Boyd of Lake Station; eleven grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren with another on the way; three brothers, Gerald Boyd of Portage, Gene (Melody) Brown of Lakes of the Four Seasons, and Melvin (Kim) Boyd of Munster; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Boyd and Fern and Carl Brown; his brother, John Boyd; and his grandson, Michael Kender.

Visitation for James will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart, Indiana. A funeral service will follow immediately at 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Steve Campbell officiating. James will be cremated following the service.