Dr. H.J. "Jerry" John Borger

Our cherished father, Jerry Borger, surrounded by the love of his family, was peacefully welcomed into the Arms of his Lord and Savior on July 13, 2025, after being blessed with a long and fulfilling life. He lived to the beautiful age of 85 years old and lived his final years in Loveland, Colorado.

Jerry was born in Mason City, Iowa, to Veasha (Szymeczek) Borger and Henry John Borger Sr. He was educated at Monroe Elementary, Washington Elementary, and Mason City High School. Henry had a deep appreciation for the quality of education he received, which he often reflected upon throughout his life. He attended Mason City Junior College and later pursued higher education at Iowa State Teachers College, Drake University, and Iowa State University, where he earned multiple degrees in education and administration.

Jerry’s professional career was marked by his dedication to the education and development of children, creating unique connections with elementary-aged youth and particularly the youngest of that group. He began as a junior high school teacher in Pella, Iowa, and quickly moved into administrative roles, eventually serving as a superintendent in various school districts. His commitment to improving educational standards and his innovative approach to school administration left a lasting impact on the communities he served. Upon retirement from being a superintendent, he invested much of his time in counseling and caring for at-risk adolescents at a program called Gateway in Springfield, Illinois. After moving to Colorado in 2004, he continued as a much-loved substitute teacher for mostly elementary grades in the St. Vrain school district and often brought puppets to class.

Jerry met the love of his life, Beverly Joyce (Bush) Borger, while she was a student at Central College in Pella. They married on July 24, 1964, and together they raised a son and daughter. They were loving and devoted to each other for over sixty years and were often seen praying together hand in hand before turning in at night. In his later years, Jerry delighted in being a grandfather to eleven precious grandchildren.

Jerry found great joy in loving, praying for, and supporting his family, friends, and community. His walk as a Christ follower was simple, humble, and grace-filled, seeking to make a change from the years of his traumatic childhood upbringing. He sought to live a simple honest life, respecting others in any position in society, and in any stage of hardship. Additionally, during his retirement years, he volunteered his time as a counselor to adults going through various trials. He was a gifted storyteller, enjoyed his cars, and loved spending time with his family.

Jerry is survived by his son Todd Borger (Marianne) of Loveland, his daughter Tamara Pettit (Matthew) of Kansas City; eleven grandchildren, Joshua, Garrett (Liz), Hope, Braden, Brielle, Lexa, Benjamin, Danielle, Colton, Brooke Borger and Caleb Pettit. He is preceded in death by his wife, parents, an infant son Timothy James Borger, and his sister.

As Jerry had a deep commitment and passion for loving and mentoring youth, please consider sending memorial donations to:

Grace Church Youth Room: Grace Evangelical Free Church, 2415 Lake Park Drive, Longmont, CO 80503