Gerald F Borgelt

Gerald F. “Jerry” Borgelt, of Huron, passed away at the age of 97 at Stein Hospice on March 10, 2025, after a brief illness. Jerry was born on June 13, 1927, in Toledo, Ohio, to the late Clarence H. and Marie (Claus) Borgelt.

Jerry graduated from DeVilbiss High School in Toledo. After high school, he enlisted in the Army, serving in France during World War II. Upon returning to the United States, he enrolled in a glass-blowing school in Cincinnati and later became employed at Waller Neon Sign Company in Huron, Ohio. He designed and manufactured custom neon commercial and residential signs for more than 40 years, eventually purchasing Waller Neon Sign Company on Main Street in Huron.

A lifelong golfer, Jerry recorded a hole-in-one on #11 at Thunderbird Hills in 1982 and later worked there during his retirement. He also loved softball, playing in leagues in Sandusky and Huron until his early 40s. A devoted baseball fan, he supported the Detroit Tigers while living in Toledo and became an avid Cleveland Guardians fan after moving to Huron, rarely missing a game on TV or radio. Jerry also had a passion for gardening and yard work, earning a reputation among neighbors and family for his meticulously grown, high-quality tomatoes each summer.

Jerry enjoyed playing weekly pinochle with family members at his home, including the weekend before he passed away. In his later years, he especially cherished time spent with his four great-grandchildren, Jayla, Kyler, Emma, and Annie, treasuring every visit. Those who knew Jerry will remember his kind, wise, and supportive nature. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren could not have asked for a more loving presence in their lives.

Jerry is survived by his two children, Julie (John) Bindulski of Kill Devil Hills, NC, and Steve (Susan) Borgelt of Huron; grandchildren Allyson (John) Lindsley, Megan (Chris) Hill, and Michele (John) Kanaris; great-grandchildren Jayla and Kyler Lindsley, Emma and Annie Hill, and Simon and Jack Kanaris; brother Sheldon (Mare) Borgelt and half-sister Evelyn (Kenneth) Grimm; sisters-in-law Elizabeth Meola and Mary Ann Hibbard; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Millie (Christiansen); daughter Tiffany Borgelt; parents Clarence and Marie Borgelt; stepmother Freda Borgelt; brothers Jim and Robert Borgelt; stepsister Marilyn Goldstein; mother-in-law Sophie Christiansen; and brothers-in-law John Christiansen, David Meola, and Jennings Hibbard.

Cremation has taken place, followed by a family gathering at Thunderbird Hills. Burial will be in Scott Cemetery in Huron.

Memorial contributions may be made to Stein Hospice, 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870.

Foster Funeral Home & Crematory, Huron, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.fosterfh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gerald F Borgelt, please visit our floral store.