John Boroughf

Generous, kind, and supportive, John Boroughf lived a faith-centered life devoted to his family. John was a man who lived by the Golden rule, embodying the principles of his faith. The power of prayer and a commitment to altruism proved a firm foundation for John's life. He was steadfast in his responsibilities, and those who knew him best took comfort in his generosity and dependability. His children were his greatest joy, and he never failed to support their endeavors and provide confidence and comfort in times of need. While his days were far too few, the gifts were many. John will long live in the hearts of those he so dearly loved.

1945 was a year marked by much celebration and hope. With the victorious end of World War II, families tuned into the celebratory tunes of Bing Crosby, Perry Como, and the Andrews Sisters. At the same time, children delighted in the debut of the slinky. Nowhere was there greater promise for the future than in Detroit, Michigan, as John was welcomed to the world on February 24.

Born in Detroit Michigan, John spent much of his youth in the St. Louis, Missouri area, where his mother Carolyn and adopted-father Arthur Wade Boroughf raised him along with his brother Holmes. His father owned rental properties in the community and his mother was an educator. Growing up in the Christian Science Church, John attended The Principia school, where he participated in plays and was the quarterback on the school football team. The school also had a college where he would later earn his Bachelor’s degree. Principia remained very dear to John's heart and throughout the years he participated in many alumni events.

After completing his schooling, John worked as a school teacher at Ritenour High School in Missouri, where he taught English and Speech. Because of his position as an educator, he was exempted from the military draft that had become so unpopular in his time. A few years later, he returned to Principia, where he worked in and oversaw the operations of the cafeteria. His passions for learning led him to pursue multiple certificates, degrees and careers throughout his life.

While John did many things in life, his main focus was his children; Edward, Lisa, David, Sara, Allan, Jay, and Jason. With a strong desire to raise functional, responsible adults who knew the difference between right and wrong, John had a tough love approach with just the right amount of discipline and the gift of faith. He put his kids' needs before his own and consciously taught his kids many life lessons. Though challenging, the lessons all drove the kids to succeed. He took the kids to church every Sunday, and the children have fond memories of going out to eat after services. He taught each of them practical skills, such as the value of money. John taught the kids to take care of themselves and be self-sufficient by making them do their own laundry and teaching them to cook. When they began driving, he made sure the kids were responsible, and whenever they drove the car, they were responsible for their fair portion of gas and the maintenance of the vehicle. John's children also came to know that their father never held a grudge and would always be there with compassionate listening and wise words of advice.

John was proud of his Scottish Heritage. He wore his kilt whenever possible, and being Scottish meant nothing was to waste. He was frugal and considered the long term value of any investment; from cars to groceries, he wanted to ensure that he was getting the best return on his investment. He was meticulous about his lawn and spent hours trying to rid his lot of sticks and dandelions.

Well-traveled, John explored the United States for education and fun and lived in many places throughout the country. But when he moved to Lawton in the late 1980s, he found a home in the small town and became a part of the community. A big sports fan, who enjoyed watching all sports. John later enjoyed working as a game official for the Michigan High School Athletic Association. John also enjoyed simple pleasures like dessert for dinner, dad jokes, and a good cup of coffee. Or should we say a good cup of cream with a bit of coffee?

John embraced every moment as a gift. He always seemed to have a smile on his face and never hesitated to give his time and talents in hopes of making life easier for others. Whether gathering with his family, tending his yard, cooking a special meal, or calling a game, John lived life to the fullest. Without a doubt, his legacy of unwavering faith, love, generosity, and dedication will be proudly carried forward by those he so dearly loved.

On Monday, September 12, 2022 John Boroughf perished due to an auto accident while coming home from something he truly loved doing, refereeing a high school sporting event. He is survived by his children: Edward Boroughf, Lisa (Jason) Mollette, Sara Culton, Allan Boroughf, Jay Boroughf, and Jason Boroughf; grandchildren: Amelia, Alex, Vivian, Zane, Alastair, River, Cole, Isla, Nolan, Tinley, Barrett; great-grandson: Markus. He was preceded in death by his brother Holmes and his son David.

Please join us at a Life Story Visitation where food, drinks, and stories will be shared on Tuesday, September 20th from 6-8 PM at Betzler & Thompson Life Story Funeral Home, 60900 M-40 Hwy; Paw Paw (269) 657-3870. Visit John's webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories and photos and sign his guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lawton Athletic Boosters.