James Thomas Borgestad

Age 78, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on May 19, 2025.

Jim was born to Matt and Ann Borgestad, and raised on St. Paul’s Rice Street. From 1960-68, he attended St. John’s Prep and University, in Collegeville, MN, where he captained the hockey and tennis teams. Thereafter “Herr B” taught German in Montgomery, MN. A Fulbright Scholar, Jim went on to complete MA and PhD studies in Speech-Communication at the University of Minnesota. He also earned a JD degree at William Mitchell College of Law. From 1976-1998, he served as “Special Assistant to the President” under five University of Minnesota presidents and as an Associate in the Office of the General Counsel. He was intellectually curious, or as he would say, “I’ll have to check that out,” whether an idea, or a book, or a fishing lure. The original “Borgie” positively impacted the lives of so many and will be missed by all.

Thank you for everything, Uncle Jimbo.

Jim is survived by his special companion, Charlene Thoemke, and brothers, Jack Borgestad and Bob Borgestad.

Memorial services will be determined at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Rice Street Athletic Club, 7179 74th Street Court South, Cottage Grove, MN 55016.

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