Carl James Bordner

Carl was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, on April 21, 1928, to Marjorie and Conde Bordner. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force.

He is survived by his current wife, Elaine Bordner, Sarasota, Florida, brother Richard Bordner, Orlando, Florida, 3 sons, Ron (Jayne), Venice, Florida, Larry, Sarasota, Florida, Gary (Grace), Arcadia, Florida, 6 grandchildren, Jeff (Suzanne); Kevin; Jennifer, Brian (Jennifer); Kimberly (Scott); Tesla (Taylor), 17 great children, many nieces, nephews and cousins, and lifelong family friend, Betty Wolfe, Lynchburg, Virginia.

Carl made a living as a draftsman and worked in supervision for the Eaton Corporation in Marshall, Michigan, and Charlotte, South Carolina. After moving to Florida, he owned and operated Ken’s Fish Camp and the Crescent Beach Snack Stand on Siesta Key, Florida.

Carl always played an active part in the lives of his sons, coaching nearly all their sports. He was especially active at the Midway Skating Rink in Battle Creek. He pursued many hobbies ranging from taxidermy, scuba diving, treasure hunting, chess, researching the history of old Florida forts, and painting, but his longest lasting interest was wood carving. He served the Sarasota Gulf Coast Carving Guild from 1993 -2020 where he served in many positions including president, as well as conducting carving classes. The efforts of the woodcarving club over its 50-year span yielded over 2 million dollars for the Sarasota Boys and Girls club.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife Gladys; grandson Jason, sisters Florence, Bernice, Velma, Marion, and brother Merle, as well as siblings Conde, Jr., Marilyn and Thelma (who died as children).

Visitation will be at Robert Toale & Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park (170 Honore Avenue, Sarasota, Florida) on April 9th at 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at noon at the Funeral Home. Internment will be at Sarasota Memorial Park, (5833 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida) following the service.

On behalf of the family, we express appreciation for your friendship and for sharing in this time of love and tribute.