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Harold Borovec Obituary
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Born and raised in Chehalis, Harold returned home after being discharged from the Navy, where he married his childhood sweetheart, Alberta McChesney, a mere six days later. Together they raised four children, Kerry, Carl, Rick, and Cindy in their home on Magnolia. Their life together was filled with hard work, love, laughter, and adventure.
While Harold enjoyed travel, reading, and watching all types of wildlife, he is best known for his love of all things railroad. He never missed a chance to share his knowledge and was instrumental in bringing the No. 15 steam locomotive back to life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Marietta Borovec; his loving wife of 67 years, Alberta (McChesney) Borovec; brothers, Byron and Duane Borovec; daughters in-law, Paulie and Debbie Borovec; and sister in-law, Irene Snaza-Borovec.
He is survived by his four children and their spouses, Kerry, Carl (Kristi), Rick (Lori), and Cindy (Don) Matson; seven grandchildren, Tori, Trenna, Bret, JR, Jacob, Luke, and Peter; and eight great-grandchildren, Anthem, Tristan, Carson, Landrum, Adalyn, Sawyer, Olivia, and Patrick; and numerous cousins.
A celebration of Harold's life is planned for July 29, 2023 at the First Christian Church in Chehalis.
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1 Entry
Kevin M. Brackney
July 29, 2023
I cannot express the profound sorrow I am feeling upon learning of Harold's passing. My deepest condolences to the family and friends. I first met Harold when I was a young Staff Sergeant at Fort Lewis in 1991. It was on a random weekend excursion away from the fort that I happened to notice a flyer taped to the entrance of a local gas station announcing the running of the No. 15 from Spanaway to Chehalis. Long story short, I hade several trips to Chehalis to see Harold and the No. 15 before exiting the Army in May of 1992, in order to pursue a railroad career, for which I credit Harold for giving me inspiration, and encouragement. If all goes according to plan, I'll retire after 30 years from the railroad industry, having worked as a freight conductor, but primarily as a locomotive engineer, eight months from now.
It pains me greatly not to be able to attend the memorial service, though my heart, and spirit are there. Thank you, Harold for your kindness, and generosity. You will be greatly missed even by those you hardly knew.
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