Alec John Borden

Alec John Borden of Kalamazoo, MI

Alec, age 77, died unexpectedly Wednesday evening, June 13, 2018, at his residence.

Born in Battle Creek, MI on October 14, 1940, son of Alec E. and Rose (McQuillen) Borden, he was a graduate of Battle Creek Central High School and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Colgate University in Hamilton, NY.

Alec, Class of 1962 at Colgate, was inducted into the Colgate Hall of Honor for Athletics in 1980 for Men's Swimming & Diving. An accomplished swimmer, he was a two-time, Division I All-American, earning honors in 1960 and 1962. His first selection came during the 1960 NCAA championships in the 200-yard breaststroke while the second honor was in the 200-yard individual medley in the 1962 NCAA finals. He also was the Upper New York State 200-yard individual medley champion in 1962 and Captained the 1962 team.

Following graduation, he returned to Battle Creek to work in the family business, Ashley Dairy. From there he went on to work with Snyder Foods Corporation and was instrumental in the start-up of a food production facility in Taiwan.

Upon return to the U.S. he managed operations for Roelof Dairy and after Roelof was purchased by Prairie Farms Dairy, Alec was responsible for starting up the new Prairie Farms facility in Fort Custer, MI. He continued as the Plant Manager until his retirement in 2003.

Alec had a passion for life on the water, growing up on Gull Lake where his family still owns a home. He loves sailing and was a long-term member of the Gull Lake Yacht Club where he served on the race committee.

Alec is survived by his two sisters, Caroline 'Kay' Reinstadtler of Champion, PA and Julie Borden of Norwalk, CT; his brother, Robert J (Anne) Borden of Hickory Corners, MI; several nieces and nephews who adored him, and his significant other, Gail Mahnke of Marshall, MI. Alec was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Helen Church.

A Memorial Gathering to celebrate Alec's life will be held on Thursday, June 21st from Noon to 3:00 p.m. at the Gull Lake Country Club, 9725 W. Gull Lake Drive, Richland, MI 49083. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Alec's honor may be directed to the Junior Sailing Club in care of the Gull Lake Country Club (see address above). The Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland Chapel (269) 629-6022 is assisting Alec's family.