Mary Elizabeth Sweetman Borman passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack on January 18, 2017. The beautiful story of Mary's life began on November 5, 1938 in Sioux Falls, SD. After receiving her degree Summa Cum Laude from Duchesne Women's College, she married her husband of 56-years, John Borman. She devoted her energies to raising their three children in Gordon, Nebraska. In the late 70s, the Borman's moved to Fort Collins, Colorado.
Mary and John shared a love for the outdoors and enjoyed adventures from bicycling trips in Europe, golfing in Scotland, to boating down the Grand Canyon. When she wasn't gardening, cooking or golfing, Mary enjoyed watching sports or reading. Hers was a life filled with love and happiness, and she radiated that to the many friends who surrounded her.
Mary possessed a deep faith and started every day with her rosary, a wedding gift from John. Her faith guided her life of community volunteerism. Mary and John's world focused on their family and they especially enjoyed hosting Christmas reunions at their winter home in the California desert.
Mary was proudest of her role as wife, mother and grandmother, and kept family traditions alive with her storytelling. Her grandchildren describe her as "really cool" – a grandmother who connected with them via texting.
Mary is survived by her beloved husband, John; her children, Rick Borman of Atlanta, Mary Ann Ellis (Greg) of Fort Collins, and Joanie Olson (Jim) of Sioux Falls; grandchildren, Scott and Allison, Joseph and Madeleine, and Sam and Emily; brothers, Dick Sweetman (Kathy); Jerry Sweetman (Mary Pat); sisters, Sophie McConnell (Malcolm); Kathy Rothenberger (Dave); and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, R.S. and Evelyn Sweetman.
Mary's life will be celebrated in a Funeral Mass at 9:30 a.m on Monday, January 30, 2017 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Holy Rosary will be at 7 pm on Sunday, January 29 at Bohlender Funeral Chapel.
The Borman family suggests that memorials be directed to Gabriel House at St.. Joseph Church or a charity of your choice in care of Bohlender Funeral Chapel, 121 W. Olive, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524.