Mathew P. "Chip" Borre III

Mathew Peter "Chip" Borre III, 68, of St. Joseph passed away peacefully on Dec. 13, 2025, surrounded by those he loved most.

Born on Feb. 11, 1957, in St. Joseph, Chip was the son of Mathew Peter (Bud) Borre II and Jean (Chevrie) Borre, both of whom preceded him in death. He grew up in Fair Plain and St. Joseph, with his siblings: Mary Ann (Joe) Pater, Steve (Michele) Borre, and Mike (Liz) Borre, who also preceded him in death.

Chip started at Benton Harbor and graduated from St. Joseph Public Schools before attending Michigan State University. He married his high school sweetheart, Cathy Rosche (Edinger), to whom he was married for 30 years. Together they raised their three children with devotion and joy. Chip proudly took over the family's Ace Hardware business from his father. Through his hard work and vision, the business flourished, growing into four stores that became fixtures in the southwest Michigan community. His son, Mat, will carry on the business in his remembrance.

A proud Spartan and an even prouder father and grandfather, Chip's passions were many – fishing, golfing, kayaking, downhill skiing, scuba diving, boating, yard work, and time on the river where he built his home. He cherished weekends spent with family, watching his kids' and grandkids' sporting activities. He was an avid MSU supporter and loved cheering on MSU's teams. His faith and commitment to community ran deep, evident through his involvement with the First Church of God, Kiwanis, the YMCA, and numerous local youth sports and charitable associations. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to First Church of God, St. Joseph Baseball Softball Association (SJBSA) or St. Joseph Youth Sports Foundation.

Chip will be deeply missed by his children" Elisabeth "Lisa" (Andy Strate) Borre of Grand Rapids, Mich., Mathew "Mat" Borre IV of St. Joseph and Kathryn "Kit" (Nate) Perry of Denver; his adored grandchildren: Sophia Olson, Madilyn Olson, Landen Borre, Layla Borre, Mathew Borre V, and Shea Perry; many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and by many friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives he touched.

Friends may visit with Chip's family from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. A celebration of life service will be at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, at the funeral home. A private family interment will be on Saturday.

Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.