Alfons Rudolf Borgelt

at the age of 87. He was born in Natrup-Hagen, Germany and was a resident of Riverside, CA. 

Alfons, a man of extraordinary resilience and steadfast determination, leaves behind a legacy 

cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

Alfons was a devoted father to his 12 children Michael Borgelt (Julie), Rudolph 

Borgelt (Andrea), Heidemarie Kamaly (Mohammad), Edward Borgelt (Karen), Timothy Borgelt 

(Evelyn), Catherine Senorans (George), Christine Braun (Michael), Veronica King (Morin), 

Bernadette Peterson (Robert), Stephen Borgelt (Stephanie), David Borgelt (Khunnavy), 

Mathew Borgelt and his 26 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. He instilled in them the 

values of hard work, perseverance, and family unity. 

Alfons's journey began with humble beginnings in the rural town of Natrup-Hagen, 

Germany. He immigrated to the United States at the age of 20 with nothing more than a 

dream, a suitcase, and a couple hundred dollars in his pocket. He traveled 12 days to the 

United States on the ship TSS New York arriving at Ellis Island, New York on November 24, 

1956. From there he made his way to Los Angeles, California. He attended night school to 

learn English and while there he met several other German immigrants who became life long 

friends. 

Using the skills he learned in Germany, he began painting homes and installing 

wallpaper in the neighborhood. The quality of his work spread by word of mouth which kept 

him busy. 

He was introduced to the engraving trade by one of his customers. Years later his 

entrepreneurial spirit led him to learn tooling, eventually founding a successful plastic 

injection mold making business, Osna Engineering Inc. His dedication and hard work not only 

supported his family of 14 but also employed four of his seven sons. 

His molds played a crucial role in various industries, from aerospace, medical and 

automotive. Notable project include parts that went to the moon for the Apollo moon 

mission, the Ford Motor Company, as well as Barbie accessories for Mattel. Alfons' 

contributions to the manufacturing world will be remembered by many. 

A devout Catholic and long-time parishioner of St. Pius V in Buena Park and St. 

Juliana Catholic Church in Fullerton, and then later, St. Catherine of Alexandria in Riverside, 

Alfons found solace and strength in his faith. He was a strong advocate of the unborn and had 

a devout devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe. He was a twin and one of seven siblings who 

endured the hardships of World War II, emerging with resilience and a profound appreciation 

for life. 

Alfons was not only a skilled businessman but also a creative inventor, had a 

passion for listening to shortwave radio and a love for travel that took him from Europe to 

South America to Thailand. His love for the mountains led him to build a cabin where he 

found peace and tranquility surrounded by nature. His quick wit and humor, often expressed 

through his infamous one-liners, brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. 

Alfons shared 45 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Maria, whom he met on a 

blind date. 

Though Alfons may have left this world, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he 

touched. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all who 

had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace. 

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your

ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

Proverbs 3:5-6