Dr. Donald Lee Borcherding

Donald Lee Borcherding, aged 90, passed away peacefully on 12 November 2024, after courageously fighting numerous health issues. Born on 20 November 1933, in Burlington, Iowa, Don will be lovingly remembered by family and friends for his service to his country, dedication to his family, love of travel, “bad dad jokes,” and legendary sweet tooth. Don graduated from the University of Iowa with both a Bachelor of Arts and a Doctor of Medicine degree. Following his medical studies, he completed an internship at a hospital in Fresno, California. Soon after, Don began a career of devoted service to his country by joining the United States Air Force. After completing his military tour, he became a civilian physician for the federal government, a role that allowed him to continue serving the nation in a new capacity. During his career, Don continued his professional development and pursuit of excellence by completing a year in Internal Medicine at Georgetown University Medical Center and earning a Master of Public Health degree from Johns Hopkins University’s School of Public Health. Over the years, Don rose through the ranks, becoming a member of the senior service before retiring from the federal government in 1986. His dedication to medicine and service led him to additional roles after retirement as a physician with IBM, Medical Director at NASA Headquarters, contract physician at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and finally as a physician at OSHA within the Department of Labor for Comprehensive Health Services. Don “retired-retired” in 2011 after a remarkable five-decade career. An avid athlete in his earlier years, Don enjoyed tennis, golf, water skiing, and snow skiing. He also had a passion for his morning routine of daily jogs. Later in life, he developed a love for clock collecting and restoration—a hobby that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and the passage of time. In addition to his professional achievements, Don was a deeply committed community volunteer. He dedicated time to ensure that Fairfax County had connected trails for safe and enjoyable recreation, helping to create pathways for residents to navigate and explore their community. Having lived through the great depression, Don worked so hard out of his desire to make his parents proud and provide a good life for his family. He is predeceased by his parents, Edwin and Lillian Borcherding. Don shared 61 years alongside his devoted wife, Lillian (Lin) Borcherding. Together, they built a life filled with cherished family memories. Don and Lin welcomed four children, Heidi Fritzeen, Jennifer Feinstein (husband Bob), Stephen (Steve) Borcherding (wife Julie), and David (Dave) Borcherding (wife Fabienne [Fab]). He enjoyed his family expanding as he became a proud Opa to six grandchildren. Wade Fritzeen (wife Hannah), Kristen Atkins (husband Liam), Matthew Feinstein, Brian Feinstein, Hunter Borcherding, and Brianna Borcherding. A patriot, physician, community servant, and family man, Don’s legacy of integrity, fairness, dedication, commitment, perfectionism, and sweet tooth will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration. A funeral mass for Don will be held Friday, 22 November 2024 from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at St John The Beloved, 6420 Linway Terrace, McLean, VA 22101. A burial service will occur Monday, 25 November 2024 from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM at Quantico National Cemetery, 18424 Joplin Rd, Triangle, VA 22172.