U.S. Army Special Forces, Green Beret, Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, Retired Master Sgt. Floyd R. Boltz passed away July 31, 2019. Floyd is survived by his wife of 50 years, Connie; children, Mary and John (Brenda) Figarelle; daughter-in-law, Laura Boltz; and grandchildren Connor Boltz, Jenavieve Boltz and Cody (Bri) Figarelle. Floyd was preceded in death by his son, Jacob Boltz.
Floyd was born in New Albin, IA to Theodore and Louise Boltz, he was the youngest of four brothers – Walter, Elmer, and Lester Boltz. Floyd found his home in the United States Military at a young age. Floyd was a Master Parachutist, Certified Jumpmaster, Primary In-Operations and Intell. Throughout his military career, Floyd received the following honors: Air Medal; Bronze Star; Purple Heart; Commendation Medals; Good Conduct Medals; twice awarded Combat Infantryman Badge for his tours in Korea and Vietnam; theater ribbons for Europe, Korea, Vietnam, Turkish Parachute Wings, and Vietnam Parachute Wings.
During Floyd’s last three years of his career, he served as an advisor to the Special Forces National Guard for Westren Montana in Missoula, MT. This is where Floyd, met the love of his life, Connie. Floyd retired from the military in March of 1971.
Together, Floyd and Connie raised, Mary, John, and gave birth to their son Jacob. Floyd settled into his new life and loved being a father and husband. Floyd was actively involved in his community and his favorite pastimes including, floating the rivers, camping, and sporting events for the kids at school.
Floyd was diagnosed with and fought a good fight against COPD. Floyd would recall his service and the better times of his life before his illness. Floyd’s keen memory and stories brought many to tears. Floyd was a positive influence on his children and grandchildren. His laughter will be missed by all who knew him!!!
A Graveside Service, with military honors, will be held Thursday, August 8th, at 10:30 a.m. at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery. Flowers & memorials may be sent to Retz Funeral Home, 315 E. 6th Ave, Helena.
Service Schedule
Military Honors
10:30 a.m.
Thursday August 8, 2019
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
3550 Hero's Ln
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Service Schedule
Military Honors
10:30 a.m.
Thursday August 8, 2019
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
3550 Hero's Ln
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Linda Kindrick says
I worked with Floyd when he was on the police force at the VA Center, Fort Harrison in the late ’70s. Floyd was always very gentle and kind. He took his job very seriously and accomplished it in a very professional manner. He only had kind words for his co-workers.
I was sorry to see he is no longer with us. Battling COPD is not for the faint of heart, and I am quite sure he gave it his all. God bless his sweet wife, three kids and three grandkids as they adjust to life without him. Cherish the memories always.
Susie Zanto says
Hi Connie,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and the rest of your family at this sad time. I’m sorry I won’t be able to attend the service as I am teaching at Montana State in Bozeman on Wednesday and Thursday. Please know that the Ray Norris girls are thinking of you.
Raymond Read says
He served in military service and was a valued member of the Special Forces Community. He was a Special Forces Advisor to 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1Special Forces, a successor organization of the First Special service Force (1stSSF or FSSF). He served in overseas assignment in the Republic of Vietnam. His service is truly significant and relatively unknown. He also was a valued member of the veterans retired community — Ray read
Vanessa Tolson says
Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Sally Nyland says
Connie,
Know that you are in my thoughts at this difficult time. Cherish the good times. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Leona Zaharko says
I’m so sorry for your great loss. I worked with Floyd at the VA and he was a wonderful guy.