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Jim Border Obituary
1944-2013 Headed BCC History Department
PITTSFIELD Jim Border, 68, passed away on May 29, 2013, of metastatic colon cancer at his Pittsfield home with his wife, Karen Canfield Border, at his side, assisted by HospiceCare in The Berkshires.
He had taught history at Berkshire Community College for 33 years, and loved what he did, the students he met, and the colleagues who helped to make BCC an outstanding and caring college.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Jim held history degrees from John Carroll University and Fordham University. Together with his wife, he did research on the Megalithic Period in Britain, Ireland, and France on the first National Endowment of the Humanities Media Grant given to a community college professor, and participated in other NEH projects. His civic interests included service on the Berkshire County Historical Society Board, the Berkshire Archaeology Board, and others.
His film and video work was a major interest in his life, leading him to shoot many archaeological and historical sites, some from the air. An avid glider aerobatic pilot, Jim was the longtime treasurer of both the Berkshire Soaring Society and the Mohawk Soaring Club. He also loved to sail, and he and his wife did blue-water sailing in the British Virgin Island and the Winward Islands. The same love of movement led him to ski and skydive. He was also a longtime trumpet and an attempted piano player.
Jim was, for many years, the head of the Berkshire Community College Faculty Union and was recognized for his achievements with the statewide Jon Butler Award. Under his leadership, the administration and faculty worked harmoniously together at a time when there was much discord on other campuses. Although offered a management position, Jim loved teaching too much to accept a job that would take him away from his students.
In retirement, Jim spent much time at the Border lakeside home in The Adirondacks where he met the far-flung members of his family ever summer.
He leaves his wife of forty years, Karen Canfield Border; his brothers, Paul R. Border of Prescott, Arizona, and his wife, Phyllis Border; his brother, Kim B. Border of Reno, Nevada; his nephew, Kory, and his wife, Vivien Border; his sister, Susan Border Christy of Fort Thomas, Kentucky, and her husband, Tim Christy, and their three sons, Samuel, Matthew, and Thomas; and his sisters-in-law, Karen Rudar of Chardon, Ohio, Donna Canfield Arnold of Pittsfield, and her husband, Stephen, and Heather Canfield McCaul of Richmond, New Hampshire, and her husband, Edward, as well as five close cousins, and many friends.
He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
FUNERAL NOTICE: Calling hours for James Durning Border will be held Friday, June 7, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., at DERY FUNERAL HOME. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Berkshire Community College Scholarship Fund in care of the Funeral Home, 54 Bradford Street, Pittsfield.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jim Border
Linda Siteman
January 2, 2021
Karen, so sorry to learn so late, that is what time and distance can do. Such fond memories of your wedding!
Jim Reynolds
July 1, 2013
BCC's Jim Border: A Memorable Educator/Storyteller
I was saddened to read of the recent passing of former Berkshire Community College History professor Jim Border. Jim was one of the professors at BCC who had a significant effect on my academic experience during my first foray into higher education.
As my advisor, Jim helped make scheduling courses run smoothly and assuaged any anxiety and apprehension I was feeling at an impressionable time for me. He was very patient with all my questions and concerns about where to go and what to do next, even though it was evident that advising wasn't his forte; it was obvious his true passion was being in front of a class.
Jim was my teacher for both Western Civilization I and II during my first two semesters at BCC. On the first day of class, he explained why History trumps all other subjects. “All subjects have their place,” he acknowledged, and then emphasized with an impish grin, “but if it happened yesterday, it's mine!”
Jim had a unique way of putting historical events and figures into a more palpable perspective. His storytelling approach to teaching breathed life into the sometimes dry and difficult subject of History. He was able to make history his story. He had impeccable comedic timing and used humor in his storytelling as an avenue to both entertain and educate his audience. He knew when he'd get a laugh and when he needed a laugh to keep us focused, or to give him a moment to consider where to go next in his tale.
Jim taught with a full-throttle enthusiasm and energy. He was always in motion, only pausing to take an occasional quick sip of coffee to refuel. I can still see him pacing back and forth in the front of the classroom, making inflections and gesticulations to clarify his point, while we scribbled our notes enrapt in his latest narrative.
One time, when we studied ancient Greece, he told the story of the Helots, a slave population who were mistreated, humiliated, and even slaughtered. At one point, they were able to rise up and stage a revolt. Jim explained that the Greek authorities learned a valuable lesson that day: “Never arm the Helots!” Jim would refer back to this phrase anytime a subjugated population acquired the resources or gumption to fight the powers that be.
On one occasion, I followed him out of the building and was surprised to witness a different side of his personality. As we finished our conversation, he stopped in front of a motorcycle and put on a helmet. Pulling on a brown leather jacket, he lit up a cigarette, gave me a quick nod, mounted his motorcycle like a trusty steed, and pealed off down the driveway in a blaze of glory, leaving me a bit flabbergasted.
Jim Border was one of the memorable personalities at BCC who made a substantial difference in my education. His influence continues to resonate within me to this day as I strive to live up to the example he set. I have adopted Jim's storytelling technique when instructing my English classes at Pittsfield High School. He made me realize the importance of humor and storytelling as invaluable tools to help build a good rapport with students, to enhance the academic development of students, and to create a positive welcoming environment in the classroom. I only hope that I can pass on the same lasting impression Jim Border imbued in me all those years ago.
Jim Reynolds
1997 BCC Salutatorian
PHS English teacher
Kathleen
June 29, 2013
I was way beyond what would be considered a non-trad student. I had a obsessive compulsive disorder. But when I was in Professor Border's class,I could put the intrusive thoughts behind. He was so engaging and I can say he was one of a kind in his expertise. Thank you Professor for listening and your support. A very warm and kind man. To his family my sincerest and heartfelt sympathy.
Jeffrey Kemp
June 20, 2013
Thanks Professor Border, you are a great educator. Your enthusiasm sparked an interest in history in many and that will be your legacy. I caught the "Border bug" and am glad I did.
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joanne thompson
June 11, 2013
I loved his energy. He was a genuine human being. Clever and kind. He was a teacher to remember.
Leo Grajzar
June 9, 2013
Although I never had Jim a a professor, he tought me many things during our lifetime friendship. Jim, I love you. Enough said.
Albert Gardner
June 7, 2013
Karen,
I am so sorry for your loss. I never had Jim as an instructor but remember him as a kind man who always said hello. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
May time give you peace.
Gary Reynolds II
June 7, 2013
Professor Border was a first rate instructor, who had an interesting and compelling view of history. I took several classes with him and his wife and to this day I remember these classes very fondly. I want to express my deepest sympathies to the Border Family.
Geo3
June 7, 2013
In Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Professor Henry Jones (played by Sean Connery) uses his umbrella with much flourish...almost as if jousting, in order to scare up a flock of seagulls which help to crash the Nazi warplane that is strafing him along the beach.
Afterwards, he looks at Indiana and says: "I suddenly remembered my Charlemagne. Let my armies be the rocks and the trees and the birds in the sky..."
That would be Jim.
Although we'll miss him dearly, all of us who knew and loved Jim know full well that we now have a very powerful advocate on the other side...and that Jim now effortlessly soars and shines where only eagles (more likely hawks) dare.
Derbyniwch ein cydymdeimlad dwysaf
Bruce and Lark Hiser
June 6, 2013
Dearest Karen and family ~ I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was an outstanding professor and man. May his memory carry you through this difficult time and beyond.
With much Love,
Bruce, Lark, Bret and Kort Hiser
Carol Tunney
June 5, 2013
A beautiful man who left a lasting grace for all who had the honor of knowing him. Karen, he was equally blessed to have you with him in life and as he passed.
Daphne Boudreau
June 5, 2013
Professor Jim Border was an amazing educator. I took classes with both he and his wife in the 1980s and to this day remember these classes very fondly.
wishing your family peace.
Nan Bookless
June 5, 2013
Dear Karen and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Border's passing. As part of the BCC family I remember you both fondly, and will never forget the story my Dad told of the day Jim took him hang gliding. Let's just say it wasn't the smoothest of days! Reading the entries here I hope it is a comfort to see that Jim has touched many people's lives (as educators and good people do). He will live on in the memories of others. Sincerest sympathies,
June 5, 2013
Mr. Border was an outstanding teacher who was very passionate about history. His lectures were so lively that I never cracked the text book and still did well on his test because the "lectures" he gave were so informative and entertaining.
Deepest sympathies to his family. He was a gift to all.
Keye Hollister
June 5, 2013
Jim Border was a very special person. He was dedicated to Berkshire Community College, his students and the entire college community. Most of all he was a gentleman.
Dane Vyska
June 5, 2013
Mr. Border was my friend and teacher twice at BCC, in the '70's + '80's. Great guy! Though it's been a long time, he still stands out in my mind as one of the coolest teachers I've ever known. His friendly + energetic style made education enjoyable. I liked him a lot, and will remember him for the rest of my life.
Scott Tripp
June 5, 2013
There are teachers and there are educators, you sir fulfilled both roles admirably,well done sir, very well done. I had the pleasure of attending Professor Border's class for night class US history '74-'75
Ron Kitterman
June 4, 2013
Wonderful memories of him as a Professor, teacher and mentor. Sincere sympathies and condolences to a wonderful person.
Alyson Beach-Weatherwax
June 4, 2013
My deepest sympathies to Karen and family. Jim was a wonderful, loving man who will be dearly missed by so many.
Tina Clermont
June 4, 2013
Mr. Border, taught me how to love history. My prayers are with you and your family. Remember to smile, and smile when you remember.
All My Respect and Prayers
Debbie (Stroffolino) Watroba
June 4, 2013
Jim and Karen Border both were the very best, most fascinating teachers I ever had. I couldn't pick between the two of you. RIP Jim. My condolences to you Karen.
Jim Pasquini
June 4, 2013
Dear Karen,
We wish to express our deepest sympathy and the hope that the kind thoughts of your many friends will make your grief easier to bear. Jim was a scholar, a gentleman and our dearest friend. He will never be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Jim and Joanne Pasquini
Bonnie Brace
June 4, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
CHRIS HODGKINS
June 4, 2013
Dear Karen
My sincerest condolences on Jim's passing. The both of you are what made Berkshire Community College great. I remember his years leading the Faculty Senate. Thanks for helping kids like us live our dreams through a good education at BCC. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Andrea Nuciforo
June 4, 2013
Elena and I and the entire Nuciforo family offer our condolences. Jim was a great guy, and a good friend. We always admired his commitment to students at BCC. Karen, we're thinking of you.
Miriam Kitmacher
June 4, 2013
I was fortunate enough to have been taught by both Karen and Jim when I attended BCC in the early 70's. Wonderful teachers and glorious human beings - Karen, I am so sorry for your loss.
Carol Ryan (Spirydowski)
June 4, 2013
I was blessed to have had both you Karen and Jim for teachers during my two years at BCC youmade learning history interesting and enjoyable. My sincere condolences for your loss. You and Jim will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Ellen Gleason Philip
June 4, 2013
Dear Karen, I am sorry to read about your husband, Jim's passing. My love and prayers for you and your family.
Jackie Carmel Roth
June 4, 2013
Karen,
Please accept my sincere condolences. I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
Lois Kitmacher - Karhinen
June 4, 2013
So very sorry for your loss Karen and family.
Jess (BJ) Kielman
June 4, 2013
Karen...I am so sorry to hear of your loss...I will be sending love to you in the next many moths...blessings.
Marie Greenleaf
June 4, 2013
I had Mr. Border as my Business Math teach at BCC back in the late 80's. I am saddened to hear of his passing. He was a very nice man and will surely be missed by many.
Brian Condron
June 4, 2013
I absolutely loved being taught by Professor Border. Goodspeed sir.
June 4, 2013
I am so sorry to read of Jim's death; he was a good friend and encouraging teacher to me when I attended BCC and afterward. He was an excellent teacher, but perhaps more important, he was a kind and gentle person. He and Karen were a beautiful example to all of a loving and equal partnership. I grieve his memory.
Linda (Tirrell) Richards
Matt Kelly
June 4, 2013
I had a great time in Jim's history class at BCC in the 1970's. His course was excellent. I learned a lot. I will always remember him. My sympathies go out to Karen.
Lynn Katz Danzig
June 4, 2013
My condolences to all of Jim's family. I attended B.C.C. from 1971-1973 and enjoyed classes that were taught by him.
Steve Aitken
June 4, 2013
Although I haven't attended BCC since the late 80's, I vividly rememeber his animated teaching ways. My condolences to his family.
Flossie (Carpino) Peltier
June 4, 2013
Dear Karen, I was so saddened to read of Jim's passing. I remember "the old days" and the BCC faculty family. Jim was such an important part of BCC, influencing the lives of so many students and fellow faculty. Frank and I were so fond of you and Jim, the gentle humor and commitment you both had to the college and to each other. I am so sorry for your loss. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Flossie (Carpino)Peltier
Adelle Michaud
June 4, 2013
Wonderful teacher. Sweet human being.
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