Donald Eugene Borem

Donald (Don) E. Borem, age 94, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 12, 2026, with loving family at his side. He was born in Hammond, IN, and lived there until his retirement, at which point he resided in Schererville, IN, until his passing. Don was a very popular and beloved resident of Deer Creek Assisted Living for the last few years of his life. The nurses and staff there fell in love with his charming personality and baby blue eyes and lovingly called him “Donnie Boy.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Borem and LaVeta (Steinsultz) Borem; his wife of 69 years, Therese (Wojciechowski) Borem; and his daughter, Kathleen Borem. He is the beloved brother of Sharon Davidson; cherished father of David (Cheryl) Borem of Hammond, Darlene Gautreaux of Griffith, Timothy (Linda) Borem of Orland Park, and Susan Anderson of Schererville; proud grandfather of Jill Gautreaux, Jeff Gautreaux, Ryan (Gabrielle) Meyer, Greg Meyer, Tim Borem, Jaclyn Mangerson, Jessica Anderson, Brendan Anderson, and Nick Anderson; great-grandfather of Kaia, Michael, Joshua, Maverick, and Archer; and uncle and friend to many.

Don was a devout Catholic and passionate follower of Jesus. He was a proud Navy veteran who served four years in the Korean War. Those who knew him were blessed by his passion for taking care of his family and for friend gatherings. Many pool parties at the house on Maryland Avenue in Hessville gained legendary status, with Don as the chief entertainer. He and his wife, Terry, would often be the life of the party, entertaining others by dancing the polka, performing magic tricks, and poking fun at each other.

Don worked at Union Carbide in Gary, IN, for more than 25 years. He was a HUGE Cubs fan who was able to realize his dream of attending a Cubs World Series game (thanks to his grandson Tim giving up his ticket) and seeing them win the World Series.

His other interests included volunteering at St. Michael’s Church, Dyer Hospital, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. He also enjoyed good comedies, cooking, cruises, ice cream, cookies, and German chocolate cake. His wit, humor, singing of silly songs, and kind heart will be missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and deepest appreciation for the tender, loving care their father received from his special nurses — Lisa, Tara, and Christie. Your compassion, gentleness, and dedication brought comfort and peace during his stay at Deer Creek, and we are profoundly grateful for the kindness you showed both to him and to our family.

A visitation for Don will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 7:00 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Ave., Crown Point, IN 46307. Private burial at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens.