Obituary of Philip Borger

Age 86, of St. Paul. Died peacefully at home on the morning of June 4, 2014. He reveled in life but did not fear its end. Phil found contentment in the knowledge that he would join his beloved Jane, his soul-mate and wife of 57 years, who preceded him in death on October 11, 2007. He regularly communed with her at her gravesite. They were models of devotion to one another in sickness and exemplars of companionship in health. During their decades together, they traveled extensively throughout North America and developed a special attachment to Hawaii. Travel always presented opportunities both for education and relaxation. He is survived by three children: John (Judy) of Minneapolis, Bob (Jan) of Annapolis, MD, and Betty (David) Woodland of St. Paul; by 11 grandchildren: Jennifer (David), Christopher (Julia), Nick, Kim (Mike), Ben (Esther), Justin (Becky), Joni (Blake), Bradley (Laura), Rachel (Kamal), Jessica (Ben), and Caleb; by 16 great-grandchildren: Joseph, Kierra (Xavier), Josiah, Caleb, Tamika, Kayla, Dryden, Shannon, Matthew, Daniel, Amelia, James, Dallas, Janaya, Kamiah, and Sienna; and by four great-great grandchildren: Justin, Katelynn, Kiarra, and Xavier II. He took quiet pride in all his children and their children. A man of keen intellect, impeccable integrity, self-confident humility, and dry wit, Phil retired early from his career in chemical engineering but maintained active service to his community and his church. He led a vigorous life well into his 80s, even self-remodeling his home along with son-in-law David. He always loved, and usually won, a challenging game of chess. Born and educated in Georgia, employed in Delaware and West Virginia, he settled in Minnesota in his 60s and grew to love the generosity and welcoming spirit of the people of this state. His family, friends, and neighbors will feel his absence and treasure all the ways he touched their lives. In addition to his wife Jane, he was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Linnie, daughter-in-law Robin, and great-grandson Braden. Services will be held 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 12, at Progressive Baptist Church, 1505 Burns Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55106. Visitation will be at the church one hour before the service. Refreshments will be served afterward. Memorials preferred to Girl Scouts of America, Fairview Hospice, the United Way, or any United-Way member charity of the donor's choosing.