Bert Owen Borg

Bert Owen Borg of Des Moines died peacefully alongside his family in his home on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Bert lived a long, zest-filled life marked by an enduring faith, a love for family, and many friends.

Bert served two years in the US Army and then began a 35-year career with the telephone company. In taking an early retirement, he had many years of enjoying life in his motorhome. Bert and wife Nancy crossed the country to visit their children and grandchildren. They spent winters in Florida. After Nancy died in 2006, Bert continued traveling throughout the year. He visited family and appreciated time as a Winter Texan in Brownsville. Bert loved to camp with his friends and family.

Bert was an avid bicycle rider. He rode thousands of miles alone and with his friends, the OOFPA. He amazed everyone by continuing to ride beyond his 93rd birthday.

Bert loved Jesus and trusted Him as his Savior at a young age. He grew up attending Union Park Baptist Church and was a member there for over 80 years. Bert started every day in God’s Word.

Bert was proud of his family. Every one of them knew they were loved and special. He could state the first and middle names of over fifty children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandchild. He would stay connected through visits, calls, and text messages.

Bert was born during the Depression and didn’t mind a day-old cup of Folgers to chase down a cookie or cinnamon roll. As a coffee lover, he was his own unique blend. He never met a person he didn’t consider a friend. He won people over with his unique laugh and outgoing personality. His closest friends described him as a partner, mentor, godly role model, and inspiration.

Bert was a testament to how to get the most out of life. He loved God, he loved people, and he never stopped moving so as to revel in every moment. He would often say, “We are never promised the next 5 seconds,” and he lived like he meant it.

Bert was preceded in death by his wife Nancy Joy Borg. He is survived by his siblings, Lee Borg and Doris Highsmith, and his children Susan Hawbaker (Dan), Jeff Borg, Linda Shannon (Shawn), Scott Borg (Marcia), thirteen grandchildren and their spouses, 22 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

A memorial service will be on Sunday, January 28, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines. The family will greet guests following the service from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers we ask that you honor Bert and the family by donating blood at your local blood bank.

Services for Bert will be live streamed. Please see the link below to join.

Financial memorials can be made to the home for abandoned children in Africa through Pour International, PO Box 135, Clermont, GA 30527

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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