William L. "Bill" Borchardt

1954 - 2018

On Thursday, September 20, 2018, William Louis Borchardt, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, died unexpectedly at the age of 64. Bill was born on April 13th, 1954 in Elgin, IL to Mary Lois and August Borchardt. He graduated from Northern University in 1980 with a degree baccalaureate degree in Geology. Bill was originally from Grayslake, Illinois but was a 30 year resident of Downers Grove, Illinois. Bill worked at BP of America for 21 years. Bill was a passionate environmentalist who was the volunteer head Naturalist at Camp Greenwood Girl Scout camp where he loved to share his love of nature with children. He also helped out occasionally at local junior high and grade schools showing students the wonders of environmental science. The natural world endlessly fascinated him and he couldn't pass up the opportunity to explain it's wonders to all who would listen. Bill was a man of few words but he used them well. He had the highest principles, and he held all around him to that same standard, be they friend, family, stranger, or fellow driver on the road. Bill had room in his heart for all, and he provided a calming presence, easy-going laughter, or a quick, witty comment to whomever was in earshot. Bill was preceded by his daughter, Becky, brother, John, sister-in-law, Janet, and his parents. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Pam (Miller), his two daughters, Molly (Jeff) Woo and Hannah, his grandson, Benjamin William, his brothers Orville and August, and many other siblings-in-law, nieces, and nephews. A wake will be held at Hallowell & James Funeral Home at 1025 W 55th St., Countryside, Illinois from 3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. on Monday, September 24. Services and interment will be private. Please consider donating to the National Park Foundation in lieu of flowers.