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BORN
1941
DIED
2012
Darwin Borden Obituary
1941 - 2012
Darwin Lester Borden (70), former resident of Redding, passed away this past Tuesday, March 6 2012. Darwin's life ended in Albuquerque New Mexico, with his loving wife, two sons and daughter in law at his side. Darwin spent six years in the U.S. Marine Corps and the following 28 years working for U.S. Forest Service. In 1994 Darwin retired from his career as a Criminal Investigator, choosing to leave Eureka and return to Redding. In 2005 Darwin, and his wife Toni of 43 years, moved to Albuquerque New Mexico. Darwin gained the respect and friendship of many during both his career and retirement. Darwin spent his life devoted to his family, friends and Marines everywhere.
Darwin is survived by his Wife Toni, sons Dirk and Adrian, Mother Vivian, Aunt Joann, and his brother Dan.
Services are at Lawncrest Memorial Chapel in Redding Monday March 12 2012 in the afternoon.
Please sign the guestbook at http://obituaries.redding.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Darwin Borden
Yvette Borden
March 3, 2025
Another year has passed, another year your presence is missed. You were the biggest part of our family, we still haven´t healed from losing you. We often talk about you, because now, talking is all we can do but one day soon you will be crushed with hugs when we meet again. Missing you.
David Vollmers
March 3, 2024
Hard to believe it's been 12 years since your last journey to be with the Lord . I still treasure all the fun we had growing up together in the big city of Delta California . I usually check on the old swimming hole once a year where your Dad and his crew used to keep it looking so nice . I remember having such a crush on your Ant Joanne when she would visit in the summer but being too bashful to do anything about it . We used to have so much fun at that old swimming hole . Those sandwich's your Mom would give us at your house I will never forget , yummy so delicious . All the fun we had on our bicycles , and climbing the mountain behind the swimming hole.
Well I'm 87 yrs old now and the last man standing in my generation so hope to meet up with you in heaven so you can tell me all the stories about your exciting times in USMC & lifetime in law in-forcement . Condolences to the rest of family .
Dave - n - Gerri Vollmers
Yvette Borden
March 3, 2023
Even though the years have passed by quickly you are still missed dearly. I can´t wait to see you in Heaven save me a place at the table so we can rejoice together. Love you.
Kim Borden
April 4, 2013
Where do I even begin... There is just so much, so many words... I loved Darwin more than he knows. He was my favorite person in the world. I will forever remember all the times we shared and for sure all the laughs we had. I will forever love Darwin and miss him and cherish all I have learned from him.
Sherril Maag
March 14, 2013
I am so pleased to have had Darwin in my life. He had such an open, warm way about him. We always felt so welcome in your home and his sense of humor added to any time we spent with him. Toni, you have so many wonderful memories to hang on to..enjoy each of them! Gene and I were proud to know him and his sense of patriotism and honor are not to be forgotten. Love to you and your family...
Chuck Fidroeff
March 14, 2013
Missed greatly for his love for God and country. RIP Friend and cousin.
Yvette Borden
March 14, 2013
Can't believe it's been a year since you were given your angel wings. I miss you.
Wanda Hammersky
October 17, 2012
I met Darwin about 5 years ago when I married Toni's brother Ric. There are so many fond memories of our visits with them. There were many great meals,dominos or just talking and sharing memories of the past.Another thing I'll always remember about Darwin was his love of reading.He was well versed on almost any subject. He enjoyed going tothe gun range. Several times I was able to be instructed at target practice by him.So many wonderful memories of this true gentleman.I LOVE YOU,DARWIN
Omar Hamza
October 15, 2012
My Friend, my American Hero, how you touch my heart in the few years I knew you. You reminded me to be proud and be strong. Thank you for allowing me to say Semper Fidelis.
God Bless you in Heaven, we will meet one day my friend.
Donna Hill-Ferrari
October 10, 2012
Darwin, more affectionately known as DeL to me, has been a friend since the early 1960's when my husband introduced me to him and his family. They became the closest of friends after meeting while standing in line enlisting in the USMC (their serial numbers were only 1 digit apart). After my first husband passed away in 1981, even though we lost touch, I thought of the Borden family often. However, I am so thankful that on a trip to Redding in 2005, I looked up Darwin and his family. We enjoyed a lovely dinner with Darwin, Toni and Vivian reminising of old times when the kids were little and of our visits to Redding. My sincere sympathies go to Toni, Vivian and family.
Connie Blanchard
October 10, 2012
I was fortunate to meet Darwin through Toni at JCP and WW - Darwin was someone once you met you never forgot - he is surely missed.
October 9, 2012
I have known Darwin since 1984. He has always been the ultimate gentleman and host. My love goes out to Toni and the boys and their family' BJ Hammersky
Dave Fossum
October 5, 2012
I've known Darwin since 1995 when he moved into our Redding neighborhood. He subsequently came to work for me as a Security Officer at Mercy Medical Center. When Darwin was in uniform, he took the job very seriously and was extremely professional. He had the respect of all his co-workers and people outside the hospital. Being neighbors, we were invited to their home several times for barbeques and to swim in their pool in the summer. Darwin was always the perfect host. I miss my talks with Darwin who enlightened me on many subjects. My sympathies go to Toni, Dirk, Andy, Vivian, and Dan.
Wil Fidroeff
September 26, 2012
Darwin still lives in my thoughts as a compassionate gentlemam who always did the right thing. The world is a better place because of Darwin. Cousin Slick
Julie Banister,Tate
September 24, 2012
He was a truly amazing man for what I knew of him , and a honor to have met him With all my warmest wishes . Julie Banister -Tate
Lucy Greene
June 5, 2012
Darwin was the embodiment of the perfect gentleman. He was always the perfect host when he entertained guests. Darwin and his bride, Toni, are definitely a match made in heaven. I enjoyed our visits immensely and they are now greatly missed. Whenever I spill something on my clothes, I look up and say "Hey Darwin!" This will always be a very fond memory for all those involved. I am looking forward to the Great Reunion in Heaven so we can laugh and 'talk story' again. 'Til we meet again!
Donald Greene
June 5, 2012
I met Darwin about 8 years or so ago through his son Andy. In that short time I came to think of Darwin as my ‘best bud' here in NM. I remember fondly the morning coffee klatches, with all the associated conversations. The trips to the range and his coaching of my shooting abilities. And the laughter. I will never forget the laughter. In those short years I came to know a man that embodied honor, integrity, cheerfulness, and a positive attitude, things that I have seen in very few people in my life. Knowing Darwin challenged my personally to be a better person. He directly challenged me to stretch my horizons' by writing. (And yes Darwin, I'm working on it) Meeting Darwin changed my opinion of the Marines as well. He helped me discover they were much more than the knuckle draggers I thought them to be. The passion he showed every day for the Corps was something. It made this Air Guard guy feel a little envious. I can even picture him now, standing sentry at those pearly gates. He'd better be there too, cause I know he'll help me get in when it's my turn. I lost my friend too soon, and way too fast, but I will never forget him. I guess all I can really say about Darwin, is, I MISS YOU MARINE.
June 3, 2012
We will remember Darwin's smile and graciousness
Carolyn and Jerry Pauley
Rick & Wanda Hammersky
May 5, 2012
Darwin will be missed ,we loved spending time with him on the range and playing Dominoes HE WILL BE MISSED by all..
April 27, 2012
Darwin was fun to be with and Toni made it complete. I have know Darwin for a long time and Jay and I enjoyed see how much toni and Darwin were ome. It is sad that we have lost two great guys in such a short time. Knowo you and Darwin had great memories of your life together. Ellen
Dan Nugent
April 19, 2012
I am Blessed to have met Darwin about sixteen years ago. He touched my life in an amazing way. What an amazing man, husband, father, son, and Marine Darwin was. His sincere, everlasting Love for Toni glowed and shined at all times. His dedication to his Lord, Family, and Country was unwavering. Serious, but oh so.... much fun!!!! We shared so much, had such fun, and so much laughter together. I learned so much good from Darwin. I will truely miss you Brother, Semper Fi, Love you.
Vicki Grimm
April 16, 2012
Toni, I always marveled at the love the two of you showed to each other even when you weren't aware of it. When he came in your face just shined. What sweet memories you must have.
Cecil & Jeanette Dyer
April 16, 2012
Our deepest condolences to Darwin's family, especially to our dearest friend (his Bride, Toni). He will be missed and remembered for his joyous manner and smiling face.
J. Hill
April 2, 2012
Our hearts and prayers go out to Darwin's family. I finally had the pleasure of meeting Darwin and Toni several years ago, after having been friends with AD for over 15 years. It was a privilege to have known a fellow Marine who has such a great family. Semper Fi
Ann (Wood) Borden
April 1, 2012
Toni (and family), Vivian, Dan and Joanne: Please accept my sincere sympathy. I pray Darwin will rest in peace.
Although it's been many years, I still reminisce with great fondness of our time together.
Most respectfully yours, Ann.
AJ Listoe
March 30, 2012
Darwin was a great man to
Me and a great friend to my dad, I'm sure they are hanging out telling storied of the old forest service days. Love you guys!
Susie Elkins (Maag)
March 30, 2012
My condolences to Darwin's family, especially his wife Toni Kay, my dear cousin. Although we didn't see each other very often, I still have many fond memories. My thoughts & prayers are with you...
Tammy Rylaarsdam
March 26, 2012
Our sincere condolences to you Toni and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Love sent to you all.
Alan (Al) Marion
March 26, 2012
Toni and Family, you have my sincere condolence in the passing of Darwin. I have always respected and enjoyed Darwin as a friend and fellow Agent. As you know we go back to the days of Fall Creek Inn. I still have a lot of good memories of those early days at Shasta Lake. We talked and shared ideas of our careers ahead. Darwin was always a leader, I'm sure he is still leading the way up there. God Bless you and the Family
Jess Bigham
March 25, 2012
Darwin was a wonderful family man and always a pleasure to work with and be around.
Jerry Moore
March 23, 2012
I always enjoyed being around Darwin. He was a person you always count on. He will be missed.
Jerry
Donald Jordan
March 23, 2012
Very sorry for your loss! I did not know his family but I did know Darwin professionally while he was in Oregon.
Betty Hammersky
March 14, 2012
You are in my thoughts and prayers
BJ Hammersky
Toni (Hunt)Coates
March 14, 2012
I was sad to hear of Darwin's passing. I grew up next door to the Bordens. I remember him being such a warm, caring man who wanted the best for those around him. While I was growing up he would often ask me questions about where my life was going, what my goals were, and he gave me really good advice and inspiration. Hugs to all of you - Toni, Dirk and Andy.
March 12, 2012
Toni, and family,so sorry to hear the sad news, Your loss is shared with many of Darwins friends and co-workers for many years.The only words I can find are:REST IN PEACE MARINE YOU DONE YOUR JOB AND MORE. Jerry Rather, Millville Calif.
Dave & Gerri Vollmers
March 12, 2012
Vivian,Danny,and all of Darwin's loved one's our prayers are with you.Darwin,God be with you in your journey,we know he's always been at your side protecting you while you spent all those years chasing the bad guys.Those years we spent growing up together up in Delta will always be treasured,we'll catch up with you at the old swimming hole in"Heaven"
Steve Fitch
March 11, 2012
Toni, Vicki and I pass on our prayers and thoughts of a wonderful guy so dedicated and with great integrity. Many fun times together chasing the bad guys. A great asset to the Forest Service team.
March 11, 2012
Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I always associate Darwin with his wonderful smile and warm personality. He'll be missed.
Sincerely, Rosie Tallerico
Fred Hansford
March 11, 2012
Toni, we will miss Darwin. I remember all the good times we had working together on the Shasta-T and the Six Rivers. May God be with you and the Children.
Patti Partridge-Shaffer
March 10, 2012
I'm thinking of you Toni-Kay,Vivian,Danny and family with heartfelt sympathy and remembering you in my prayers and heart...Our great times at Delta..
Diane Arends(Johnson)
March 10, 2012
Our sympathy to the Borden family. We knew Darwin and the Borden family when our family lived in Delta so many years ago. He was always so friendly and always had a smile and good word for everyone. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you...Diane Arends(Johnson)and family...And the Johnson Family.
Pam & Jerry (Shelton) Serpa
March 10, 2012
No words can express the sadness that I feel of the news of the passing of a long time dear friend Darwin. Our families lived by each other in the small community of Delta. I have known Darwin all of my life. I will always remember his great smile and wonderful laugh. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Borden Family.
Dottie & Colin Peacock
March 9, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jim Sains
March 9, 2012
What a loss to the family and to the USFS community. I only associated with him for a short time, but quickly learned that he was truly a "no nonsense" person with a smile and a glint in his eye. Some people whom you meet only briefly are soon forgotten. He was one that stayed with me for years. I missed having him around.
Eric Vollmers
March 9, 2012
I remember Darwin at the Borden family home in his Marine uniform when I was a kid living at Delta. What a wonderful and distinguished career this canyon kid had. Dan and Vivian, my condolences.
Eric V.
Mike Mitchell
March 9, 2012
My heartfelt condolences to Toni and the family over your loss of a husband, Father and very good man. He was a man of honor, conviction, humor, and sincerity. His love of country, family and dedication to the Forest Service was an inspiration to me. It was my privilege to have known and worked with him over the course of my career.
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