Daniel “Dan” Louis Borchelt, 78, of Sunman, passed away on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Aspen Place Health Campus in Greensburg, IN. He was born on October 19, 1945, to Walter and Mae (Ruleman) Borchelt.
Dan graduated from Jac-Cen-Del High School (1963) and went on to further his education at Purdue University, Indianapolis Campus. In the midst of getting his college degree — and on a whim, — he and a buddy went to a job fair. He applied for an engineering position at IBM and got the job. Twenty-five years later, he retired early from Big Blue where he had had an accomplished (and award winning) career.
Even though his work was an important part of his life, he thoroughly enjoyed solving problems. So, when the computer world was in the rearview mirror, he transitioned to wood-working. Despite being too humble to admit it, he was a very skilled carpenter. He loved a good challenge that required getting pieces to fit. And when he wasn’t building with the medium, he enjoyed burning it. He especially loved bonfires – stoking the flames, watching the drifting embers, feeling the heat.
But it wasn’t just computers or lumber or puzzles. He had many hobbies and passions, including his coveted wooden toys that were shared with many. What really mattered to him were the people in his life, especially time spent with his nephew Jim (which may have included a few shenanigans). Encounters with Dan may have seemed “fleeting” at times, but the friendships and loves in his life were so important to him and the caring ran deep. He probably wouldn’t like us to say that out loud — too mushy –, but it was true.
At his core, he was a kind, can-do, quiet man who treasured his privacy. And he was always, always there when you really needed him. All you had to do was ask. If there was a “to do”, he wanted it “done.” Bottom line, he was about as genuine and authentic a person you can imagine or hope to have in your life.
His wishes were to be cremated. And in his honor, a simple memorial service will be held in October 2024. More information will be shared with family and friends when the date and location are confirmed.
Dan is survived by his brother: Alvin Borchelt of Indianapolis, IN; his two daughters and their spouses: Beth and R. Wes Brown of Charlotte NC and Amy and Todd Burrer of Navasota, TX; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two former spouses: Paula Suzzette Schmit and Linda Kay Wade; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whom he loved dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bill Borchelt; sisters: Betty Koester and Lucille Williams.
To quote The Man in Black, “Happiness is being at peace, being with loved ones, being comfortable… but most of all, it’s having those loved ones”. ~Johnny Cash
He was surrounded by so, so many who loved him. He was, and will always be: the man, the myth, the legend.
We love you, Dad.
Beth & Amy
Please feel free to leave a memory or a message of comfort for Dan’s family in the online guestbook.