Robert Lee Borden

Robert Lee Borden, age 89, of Red Oak, Texas, passed away on February 13, 2024. He was born on July 26,1934, in Atascadero, California. He was married for sixty-five years to Velda Pauline Borden and was deeply devoted to his beloved “Vee,” fighting to his last day to take care of her. He was also devoted to his four kids, and they were equally devoted to him. Lee’s distinct power-whistle would beckon them home from around the neighborhood each night at dinner time. He spent years coaching his kids’ youth sports teams and continued to support each of their endeavors to the end. He instilled respect, loyalty, and perseverance in them. Lee was exceedingly proud of his sixteen grandkids and five great-grandchildren, boasting about them liberally. He loved nothing more than to see his family succeed.

Lee served honorably in the United States Air Force for six years. He later found success in the lumber and building materials business before employing his entrepreneurial skills, launching two ventures: Santa Clarita Marine in 1972 and Great Outlook Windows and Doors in 1994. A California native, Lee loved sunshine, the Pacific coast, and later as a family-man he developed a passion for boating and water sports, particularly at Lake Powell. As a Christian, Lee was a committed member, faithful attendee, and supporter of the local church. He was a voracious reader, enjoying Christian apologetics, politics, and fiction. Mechanically inclined, he tinkered with engines of all types. He particularly loved to restore vintage cars and to take his grandkids for rides in them. He had a heart of gold, an infectious grin, and loved to make people laugh. Lee truly “never met a stranger” and was beloved by all who knew him.

Lee is survived by his spouse, Velda Borden; sons, Steve Borden (Sabine), Jeff Borden (Lori) and Mark Borden; daughter, Kelley Bouck (Paul); grandchildren, Garrett Borden (Katelyn), Steven Borden (Giselle), Gracie Borden, Heather Tipps (David), Hannah Wermich (Ryan), Daniel Borden, Heidi Hood, Derek Borden, Randi Jackson, Scott Bouck (Hannah), Brett Bouck (Natalie), Karli Knisley (Bradley), Matthew Bouck, Shelby Borden, Sam Borden, and Titus Borden; great-grandchildren, Connor Tipps, Emerie Tipps, Penelope Wermich, Harper Borden and Goldie Bouck; and brother, John Borden.