Robert B. Borchardt

1940 - 2025

Robert B. Borchardt
Born: November 21, 1940 in Highland Park, IL
Died: December 6, 2025 in McHenry, IL
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert B. Borchardt, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who left us peacefully on December 6, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on November 21, 1940, in Highland Park, Illinois, Robert's life was defined by his unwavering love for his family and his commendable service to his country.
Robert began his educational journey at Elm Place Elementary School in Highland Park before graduating from McHenry High School in 1958. He pursued higher education at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb for three and a half years.
In 1962, Robert answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the Army and proudly serving in the 114th Assault Helicopter Unit, known as the "Knights of the Air." His service included a year in Vin Long, Vietnam, where he demonstrated remarkable bravery and resilience during a challenging time in history.
After returning from the war, Robert married the love of his life, Carol, on September 21, 1968, in Lake Zurich, Illinois. Together, they built a beautiful life in Ringwood, Illinois, filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Robert dedicated 22 years of his life to Morton International. He truly enjoyed honing his mechanical skills on anything with moving parts and loved sharing that passion with others.. He was not just a mechanic but a tinkerer at heart, often found working on old engines, motorcycles, and passionately collecting antiques. His ingenuity and creativity shone through in every project he undertook.
Robert is survived by his wife, Carol (Erickson) Borchardt; his son, Charlie (Sarah) Borchardt; his grandson, Steven (Taylor) Espinosa; and his great-grandchildren, Levi and Rylee Espinosa; his brothers: Chris (Lisa) Borchardt and Paul (Linda) Borchardt; his sister: Sara (late Greg) Saboe; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will miss him deeply.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ferdinand and Ruth (Rhinesmith) Borchardt, and his sister, Jean Biddlecom.