John Smith Borges, affectionately known as “Cap” or “Pop”, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 10, 2021 at the age of 85, surrounded by his adoring children and grandchildren.
Cap was born on January 12, 1936, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Upon graduation from Culver Military Academy and Lawrence University, where he was elected president of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, Cap proudly served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. He was a longtime resident of Mequon, Wisconsin, and of Palm Island, Florida where he enjoyed spending time on the water with his six grandchildren and strolling the beach for shells.
Cap was completely dedicated to his family, his profession, and his community. In 1972, after 12 years with his father at the Borges Insurance Agency, he formed Borges, Patton, Ogden. In 1983 he joined Robertson Ryan & Associates where he later became President and Chairman of the Board. Over the years, Cap served as a co-chairman of the 1984 Wisconsin Olympic Committee, the Board of Prevent Blindness Wisconsin, President of Lakeside Child and Family Center, a Board Member and President the Wisconsin Humane Society, a trustee of the University School of Milwaukee, a trustee of Pine Manor College, and the President of The Town Club.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 48 years, Mary Mackie Borges, as well as his parents Margaret and John H. Borges. He was the loving father and father-in-law of Barb (Tim) Aik, Mack (Ashley) Borges, Meg Vail, and Mahlon Vail. Pop was the proud grandfather of Libby and Sarah Aik, Jack and Charlie Borges, and Sarah and Alex Vail. He is also survived by his loving wife and companion for the last seven years, Gay Borges. His family and many, many dear friends will miss his infectious smile, easy laugh, and genuine care for others.
Committal services were held for the family at Forest Home Cemetery and a Celebration to honor Cap’s life will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Cap’s name to Penfield Children’s Center (www.penfieldchildren.org), The Charles E. Kubly Foundation (www.CEKF.org) or MCW Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorder Program (mcw.edu/giving) are appreciated.
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