Joe Borkowski, age 77, passed away on November 24th, in Valparaiso, Indiana. His father, Michael, precedes him in death, mother, Virginia, brother, Michael and sister, Joan. He had many years contending with an unknown immune disorder, however, the cause of death was Covid-19.
Joe led a very full life and he appreciated it to the fullest. After graduating from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, he went to work at Park-Davis as an analytical chemist. After five years as a chemist, he transferred into the Human Resources area, which started his career as a manager. During this time, he received a Master’s degree in Labor Relations. He also loved writing poetry and as such, went onto receiving a degree in English Literature as well.
Outside his family, his major joy in life was golfing; which, anyone who ever met him knows he pursued with great passion. He held onto a handicap, even in his worst days between two and five. He belonged to Sand Creek Country Club and thoroughly enjoyed playing with “the old fogies”, where he was also the Club Captain in 2009 and won many tournaments.
After working in the pharmaceutical industry, he decided to try his hand in banking where he was employed as the V.P. of Compensation by the National Bank of Detroit. As the years went by the bank merged, yet he continued to be promoted until 2004; when he retired as the Executive V.P. of Compensation and Benefits for JPMorgan Chase.
Traveling with his wife and family was another love of Joe’s life. Which included many trips around the world and to Las Vegas; where he would amuse himself by playing Poker and Keno with family members. Though he was blessed in many respects, Joe understood that it was the little things in life that truly mattered and as such, chose to surround himself with family, friends, music and art. He and his wife, Monica, opened their doors to many people over the years and Thanksgiving Day would have been their 54th Wedding Anniversary.
He is also survived by three daughters, Rachel Ricotta (John) of Plano, Texas and their two children; Holden (seven) and Bryn (four). Daughter Rebecca Iwanus (Shawn) and their two daughters; Madison (nine) and Piper (two) and his twelve-year-old step-granddaughter Cadence and daughter Molly of Grand Rapids, Michigan. His brother, Tom Borkowski (Maryanne) also survives.
He will be cremated and a celebration of life will be taking place at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church in Bay City, Michigan at a later date due to the current pandemic.
Professional arrangements are entrusted to the White-Love Funeral Home, Chesterton, IN. Memories may be shared at: www.whitelovefuneralhome.com.
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