Walene M. Borowske

Walene Borowske, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026. Born November 21, 1946, in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the daughter of Walter and Marie (Schmitt) Staab.

Walene married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, James Borowske, on August 19, 1967, and together they shared nearly 60 years of devotion and joy. They loved to travel the world, exploring new places side by side and creating memories that became treasured stories within their family. Walene was a proud and loving mother to Jennifer (Larry) Beerman, Jamie (Michael) Barkhau, and Melissa (Chad) Clarridge.

She is survived by her grandchildren Sam (Alex) Beerman, Reghan Beerman, Cole Clarridge, and Kate Clarridge; her great granddaughter, Charlotte Beerman; and her cherished 13 year old dog, Olivia, who was her constant companion. Walene is also lovingly remembered by her siblings Chris (Carol) Staab, Mary Ann Amrozowicz, Tim (Beverly) Staab, and Terri (Jeff) Wacker. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings Richard Staab and Kathy Bowman; and brother in law David Amrozowicz.

Walene lived life with energy and enthusiasm. She was an avid tennis player and, in later years, a golfer who enjoyed time on the course with friends. She had a natural talent for interior decorating and a joyful love for shopping, always finding ways to make her home warm, beautiful, and welcoming.

Her love for horses grew from supporting her daughter Jamie’s dream, and together they co founded Coppertop Farm, creating a respected breeding program and a place filled with purpose, partnership, and passion.

A private memorial will be held in accordance with her wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Blue Beautiful Skies Fund for Lung Cancer Research at The OSUCCC - James in her honor. https://giveto.osu.edu

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