Harriet Ann Weber

Harriet Ann Weber passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, at the age of 92. Born in Portland on March 24, 1933, to Harriet and Fred Kruse, Harriet was the youngest of three daughters. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Patricia and Mary.

Harriet graduated from Grant High School before attending the University of Idaho, where she earned her degree in Elementary Education. It was during her college years that she joined the Pi Beta Phi sorority—an affiliation that became one of the cornerstones of her social life. She remained dedicated to her sorority sisters for decades, finding great joy in their milestone reunions and the consistency of their lifelong bond.

After graduation from University of Idaho, her teaching career began in Las Vegas, Nevada, where she taught 3rd and 4th grade for two years. In 1957, after having moved back to Portland she married Fred Weber at the Madeleine Church. The couple moved to New York while Fred pursued his doctorate, and Harriet continued her work in education in New Rochelle NY, navigating an hour-long daily commute from Queens. During those New York years, she also worked summers in the Manhattan Garment District, a time she remembered fondly for the insight it gave her into the world of fashion – and clothes to bring home!

As a mother to sons Mark and Steve, Harriet was the stabilizing force of the household. The family moved from New York to San Mateo, California, and eventually returned home to Portland. Harriet managed the transitions of family life with grace, including a four-month stay in a small family cabin in the Southwest Hills while settling into their permanent home. Her daughter, Carolyn was born shortly thereafter.

While Fred was active in prominent civic roles with the American Marketing Association and OMSI, Harriet was his constant partner, supporting his professional endeavors and accompanying him on travels across the country which she greatly enjoyed.

Harriet placed a high value on the longevity of her relationships. Many of the friendships she formed in the 1960s endured for the rest of her life. She was a regular presence at weekend Bridge card nights and Dance Clubs, and she enjoyed traveling with friends to destinations ranging from the Greek Islands to Alaska and Mexico.

In 1993, several years after Fred’s passing, Harriet married Don Borden. During this chapter of her life, she returned to the workforce, serving as a secretary for Multnomah County for 17 years. She also dedicated much of her time to volunteering at the Providence St. Vincent Patient Information Desk, where she took pride in being of service to others and valued the camaraderie of her fellow volunteers.

Harriet’s greatest focus was always her family. Family gatherings at Christmas including a large “feast” with the entire family present were her greatest joy. She took pleasure in attending her grandchildren’s school events, gatherings at her children’s homes for family dinners, and spending summer vacations at Sunriver and the Oregon Coast.

She is survived by her husband, Don Borden; her children, Mark (Kelly), Steve (Sue), and Carolyn (Warren Hastings); and seven grandchildren and one great grandchild: Timothy (Rachael), Jessica (Clayton Baker), Katja (Brandon Nelson), Stephanie (Robert Strys), Elisabeth, Lauren, Daria, and great grandchild Rowan.

In recognition of Harriet’s commitment to helping others, the family suggests that remembrances be made to the Providence St. Vincent Hospital Guild or the American Heart Association.