Jeffery Lynn Bayard, 57, of Wisconsin Rapids, formerly of the Superior area, died Friday, February 4, 2011 at Solvay Hospice House, Duluth.

He was born November 12, 1953 in Superior, son of Raymond and Elaine (Holmes) Bayard.

Jeff's work history starts with Superior Memorial Hospital, Pattison Park Fire Tower, Arrowhead Bridge, and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. While with the State of Wisconsin, he worked with asphalt testing and inspection.

Jeff was an avid Green Bay Packer and Wisconsin Badger fan, and he loved to travel and play chess. He was a member of the United States Federation of Chess.

Preceding him in death were his parents.

Survivors include his sister, Jane (Nap) Nault, Foxboro, WI; brothers, Ray (Carol) Bayard, Foxboro, Donald Bayard, Foxboro, and George (Gloria) Bayard, Superior; several nieces and nephews; good friends, Rick and J.J. Drolson; and his dog, Jesse.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, February 10, 2011 and will resume at 10 until the 11 a.m. service Friday, February 11, 2011 at Downs Funeral Home, 1617 N. 19th Street, Superior. Reverend Gary Garnatz, pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church, Superior, will officiate.

Burial will be in Summit Cemetery, Summit Township, WI, following the funeral service.

Pallbearers will be David Nault, Nick Hudacek, Don Bayard, Nap Nault, Rick Drolson and Adam Staupe.

Following the committal service, everyone is invited to a luncheon at the Summit Town Hall.