Thad A. "Ted" Borkowski Jr.

Thad A. "Ted" Borkowski, Jr., 83, of Florida, passed away peacefully at home on October 19, 2025. Born on February 17, 1942, in South Bend, Indiana, Ted was the son of Thad A. Borkowski, Sr. and Catherine Borkowski, both of whom preceded him in death.

In 1960, Ted moved to Florida, where he would enjoy a long career in retail buying and merchandising with several chain stores. In the 1990s, he brought together his professional experience and passion for athletics as an account executive for the MLS Tampa Bay Mutiny and NPSL Tampa Bay Terror, helping strengthen the teams' connection to their community during a formative moment in American soccer.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ted devoted many years to coaching youth soccer in the 1980s and 1990s. He shaped not only athletic ability but also character, confidence, and teamwork in the young people he guided-many of whom still speak of his influence with gratitude. Ted remained involved in local soccer through events such as helping establish the foundation for the Senior Soccer Challenge in Pinellas County and in the soccer communities of Seminole and Largo, where his encouragement and enthusiasm were deeply appreciated.

Ted pursued his love of motorsports with dedication and excitement. He completed his professional driver training at Bondurant Racing School. As a member of IMSA and SCCA, he raced at renowned tracks including Daytona, Sebring, Miami, St. Petersburg, Atlanta, Charlotte, Detroit, and Panama in Central America. Whether behind the wheel or among fellow drivers, Ted embraced the camaraderie, focus, and exhilaration that racing brought into his life. He also loved the outdoors and found joy in bowling, camping, fishing, and cooking for family and friends on the barbecue grill.

At the heart of everything Ted accomplished was his family. He shared 50 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Patricia, whose companionship, humor, and love were the foundation of his life. He is survived by his children: Scott Borkowski; Stephen Borkowski, with three grandchildren; also Shelly Davis (John), with two grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; Douglas Borkowski (Constance), with four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and Tina McElveen. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas Borkowski (Michelle); sister-in-law, Denise Kraus; brothers-in-law, Joseph Frontel and Norbert Frontel; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Ted's life was defined by kindness, humility, and quiet courage. He had an extraordinary ability to make others feel seen, supported, and valued. His legacy lives on in the generations he guided, the friendships he nurtured, the communities he strengthened, and the family he loved without limit. To know Ted was to know a man who gave generously, loved deeply, and lived fully. Ted will be forever cherished, forever remembered, and forever missed. May his example of kindness, integrity, and joy continue to inspire all who knew him.