Richard "Dick" Dean Borchert
August 01, 2017
Richard “Dick” Dean Borchert, 88, of Windsor Heights passed away Tuesday, August 1, 2017. Services will be held Saturday, August 5 at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines with visitation prior from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and the memorial service at 12:00 p.m.
Born January 2, 1929 in Carlisle, Iowa, Dick was the eldest of four children, to Lloyd and Ethyl Borchert. He was raised mainly in Warren County and graduated from high school in Chicago where he enjoyed riding his Indian motorcycle and playing his saxophone. Dick served in the US Army and was a graduate of Simpson College.
He married Gilda Rodgers December 23, 1952, and they were inseparable for 65 years. Dick was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was the “go to” guy for advice or help with anything and was always there to pitch in on any project for family and friends. Everything Dick did showed his particular attention to detail. He was a member of the American Legion for many years, and enjoyed camping, traveling, reading, gardening, and being with his family.
Dick retired as a vice president with Blue Cross and Blue Shield in 1987 after 23 years of service. He went on to own a window treatment installation business and later worked as a driver for Stew Hanson’s Dodge and for Hamilton’s Funeral Home.
He is survived by his wife, Gilda; son, Rick (Joyce) Borchert; daughter, Rhonda (Jeff) Van Cleve; brother, Wendall (Nancy) Borchert; 4 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren with twin girls coming soon; and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Dick was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Eleanor and Norma.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Dick & Marilyn Hankinson
08/06/2017
Marilyn and I were sorry to read of Dicks death. We all go back a long ways. Hang in there Gilda.
Jo Jo Gillespie
08/05/2017
Throughout My Many Years at Wellmark BCBS Mr. Borchert was the BEST VP that Company ever had. Such a Kind Man. Many prayers to you Matt and All your family.
Janice Fox Rouse
08/03/2017
My first job out of high school was as Dick's secretary. He was a remarkable man. We had a wonderful working relationship as he watched me "grow up", dating, engagement, marriage and first child. He was a very intelligent man and truly cared about the people that worked with and for him. I have had many bosses in my life but none could ever compare to Dick. Thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family.
Rod and Rae Surber
08/03/2017
So sorry to learn of Dick's passing. He and Gilda were great friends of my late Mom and Dad, Dale and Lois Surber. RIP
Becca Nau
08/03/2017
My condolences to the Borchert family. Dick was wonderful to know through our connection at Hamilton's. He was a true gentleman and I loved his sense of humor. He will be greatly missed.
Diane Dowell
08/02/2017
So sorry for your loss!
Mary Ann McCoy
08/02/2017
Gilda and family..
I am so sorry for your loss. Bill & I enjoyed Dick's friendship as he was a wonderful and good customer for many years.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love
Deb Good (Kimmey)
08/02/2017
I am so sorry to hear of Dick's passing. I remember and always enjoyed working with him at Blue Cross for 15 years when he retired. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Ralph & Juanita Marasco
08/02/2017
Our Deepest Sympathy!