Joe Jerome Borgen "Papa Joe", 78, East Grand Forks, MN, passed away at his home on Wednesday, September 2, 2020.

Joe was born on December 29, 1941, the son of Leo and Almira (Vezina) Borgen. He grew up south of Niagara, ND and graduated from Petersburg High School. On June 29, 1962, Joe was united in marriage to Leona Ackerman at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Grand Forks, ND. Together the couple raised two children, Jeff and Jodi.

Over the years, Joe worked for Swanson Ford Garage, Lyons Auto, and Woodwards. He was also part owner of Western Sales and Leasing Volkswagen Dealership.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, and an honorary member of the VFW and Eagles. He also served with the East Grand Forks Heritage Foundation for over 30 years. He enjoyed hunting and especially loved building and flying ultralight aircraft.

Joe is survived by his wife of 58 years, Leona; two children, Jeff (Beth) Borgen, East Grand Forks and Jodi (Ty) Danner, Sioux Falls, SD; 6 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 1 brother, Dennis (Geri) Borgen and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Lars and Clare; and two nephews, Kevin and Curtis Borgen.

Mass of Christian Burial : 11:00am on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, East Grand Forks.

Visitation: 5-7pm with a prayer service at 6:30pm on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, East Grand Forks.