Mary A. Borhart

Mary was born in Couderay, Wisconsin on May 21, 1935, though the clerk mistakenly entered March 20 on her birth certificate, to her mother June Rankin nee Hudson and father James Rankin. Mary joins her husband August Emil Borhart in eternity, as well as her parents, her sons Jim Borhart and Tom Borhart, and many other loved ones. Mary is survived by her daughters Terre Balistreri and Tracy Borhart, her sons Mike Borhart and Bob Borhart, her granddaughter Jennifer Albrecht and great-grandchildren Brandon, godfather to Cameron and Jazmine.

Mary attended high school in Winter, Wisconsin. While in school, she worked at a restaurant to help support her family and was elected the Pancake Queen with her picture in the newspaper. At 18, she bravely moved to the big city of Milwaukee with three girlfriends, lived downtown, and worked for Standard Oil.

Mary attended a wedding where she met and danced with Gus Borhart, a twice-honorably discharged United States Marine who had fought in Korea, and they wed a few months later. Mary and Gus eventually bought a home in Milwaukee in 1958 and raised six children. Mary devoted her time to raising the children, teaching them to read and engaging in activities such as a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts. Over time, Mary began working for the Milwaukee Public Schools, and eventually found her final employment with the Veterans Administration in Wood, Wisconsin.

Mary stayed active after Gus passed away in 1991, and she retired from the VA at age 65. She greatly enjoyed swimming with friends and spending time with her grandchildren. Mary and her family were active members of the Wellington Park Lutheran Church in Milwaukee where she was a Sunday school teacher, served as a deacon on the church council, participated in the quilting club, and helped grade school children learn to read in an after-school program.

Mary helped raise her great-grandchildren by hosting sleepovers, preparing their favorite treats, driving them to school at times, and playing an active role in their Lutheran communion and confirmation ceremonies, and attending church with them. Mary was affectionately known as “Tom Grandma.”

Mary moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee with her son Tom, who cared for her until her passing. She enjoyed Tom’s cooking, the warm weather of Tennessee, and the companionship of their dog Harley.

Mary and Gus raised six successful children through the turbulent 1960s and 1970s. She did her best to provide for her family throughout their lives. Mary was quick to volunteer help to family, friends, or worthy causes. She enjoyed many close friendships. Mary will be missed by her family and friends.

Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory, and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com