Winston W. Borden

My friend Winston died on Monday after complications from bladder cancer.  I last saw him in August on my way back to the cities.  He told me that the cancer patients were all the ones who seemed happy when he was waiting for treatment.  I shall miss him, treasure his friendship, and reread his book occasionally.

SEPTEMBER 1, 1943 – JANUARY 20, 2014

Borden, Winston Wendell age 70, former state senator from Brainerd, died January 20 due to kidney and liver failure.  He is survived by children, Amanda (Steve), Ben, Chris (Dinah); grandsons Henry, William, Sam; brothers John (Lori), Thomas (Jan); sister Edna (Gary). Winston graduated from Saint Cloud State and the University of Minnesota.  Elected to the state Senate three times, Winston worked tirelessly for the Equal Rights Amendment, the BWCA and workers’ protection.  Following his service in the legislature, Winston was president of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce and practiced law before returning to the family farm.  Winston was a teacher, author, lobbyist, entrepreneur and environmentalist who strived to bridge differences between political parties for the common good.  He also leaves behind 5,000 Facebook friends, an old wood stove, and a goose named Peeps.  Public visitation Friday, 2014-01-23 5:00-7:00 PM at Nelson-Doran Funeral Home and funeral service Saturday, 2014-01-25 11:00 AM at Ossipee Community Church in Merrifield.  In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Minnesota Native Plant Society.