Maynard Boyko, 101, of Ruso, ND died on Monday, September 28, 2026, at the Turtle Lake Hospital, Turtle Lake. Funeral service will be held at Seventh Day Adventist Church, Turtle Lake on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Burial will be in Greatstone Russian Cemetery, rural Benedict, ND on Friday at 4:00PM.

Maynard was born December 15, 1934, in the Graner home on the hilltop, the son of Harry and Mary Polesnik. He attended country school through the eighth grade before beginning a life rooted in hard work, service, and farming.

As a young man, Maynard worked for area farmers before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Army. He served during the Korean Conflict from 1951 to 1952. Following his honorable service, Maynard returned home and helped with the construction of the Garrison Dam. He was especially proud to have been present when President Dwight D. Eisenhower came for the dedication of the Garrison Dam, a memory he carried with him throughout his life.

Following the death of his father in 1960, Maynard took over the family farm. Farming would become not only his livelihood, but a way of life that remained close to his heart for decades.

Maynard later met the love of his life, Della Mae Weaver, and the two were united in marriage on September 24, 1967. Together, they built a life on their farm near Ruso, where they worked side by side and made their home throughout their married life.

Maynard retired from farming in 1989, but the farm remained home, and he continued to live there following his retirement.

He is survived by his wife Della Mae, sisters-in-law, Alice Boyko, Carolyn Stewart, Margene Wessel, and several nieces and nephews.

Maynard was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Arnold, Donald, and Edwin, sisters, Elsie, Arlene, Delores, and Jeannette.

The family of Maynard would like to thank the staff of the Turtle Lake Hospital for their loving care they provided Maynard the last 5 years.