Clarence "Mike" Borgen Obituary (1937 - 2024)

In Loving Memory of Clarence "Mike" Borgen Clarence Herbert Borgen, affectionately known as "Mike", was born on September 28, 1937, to Samuel and Marion (Guibor) Borgen and passed away on February 7, 2024. He was a beloved husband and proud father and is survived by his wife Barbara (Stergion) Borgen of over 54 years from Enumclaw, WA and daughter Amy Borgen (Rob Doiron) and grand dogs Vienna and Fraulein from Allyn, WA. Mike was the eldest of three siblings, Nan Magnusson and Larry Borgen and is survived by his sister Nan from Des Moines, WA. He is also survived by Brother-in-Law Dennis Stergion of Federal Way, WA, Sister-in-Law Sandra Stergion of Enumclaw, WA, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. A lifelong resident of Enumclaw, WA, Mike's journey began with humble beginnings. He entered the workforce at a young age, demonstrating his strong work ethic and dedication. Despite the early loss of his father, Mike took on the responsibility of caring for his family alongside his mother and siblings. After graduating from Enumclaw High School in 1957, his commitment to hard work continued through his service in the Army reserves and at the Forest Service. Mike's passion for serving his community shone brightly through his 33 years of volunteer firefighting at Enumclaw Fire Department. Mike had a deep love for mechanics and automotive repair. He had the brain of an engineer and could fix anything. He had his first car at 12 and taught himself how to drive by driving it up and down the alley. He built his own go-carts at around the same time. He shared his expertise by teaching Automotive courses at Green River Community College for 17 years prior to retiring and assisting friends and family with their vehicle repairs. His custom-built garage was a testament to his skill and passion for all things with an engine. Mike found joy in building and racing dragsters at Pacific Raceways, snowmobiling, sand rails, four-wheeler, and motorcycle riding, and constructing and piloting his own ultra-light plane. A special relationship was formed with his nephew, Alan (Kim) Borgen who always enjoyed tagging along. His love for planes, trains, and automobiles was evident in his pursuits and travels, some favorites including visits to the Oregon coast, Tri-Cities, WA, Washington D.C., California, family camping trips, and seeking out train museums. Mike's enthusiasm for life extended to his love for photography, savoring home-cooked meals, and frequenting his favorite burger and milkshake drive-throughs along with McDonald's breakfasts. Mike was predeceased by his Parents of Enumclaw, WA Brother Larry Borgen of Haugan, MT, Father and Mother-in-Law Gus and Dorothy (Keeley) Stergion of Enumclaw, Brother-in-Law Terry Stergion of Enumclaw, and Sister-in-Law Sara Jane Stergion of Federal Way, WA. Mike's legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for family and community will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a lasting impact on all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him. Mike will be interred in a private ceremony at Evergreen Memorial Park in Enumclaw. A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m. April 6, 2024, at Enumclaw VFW Post 1949 at 44426 244th Ave SE, Enumclaw, WA to jointly celebrate Mike and his Great Uncle-in-law, Bob Keeley. Donations may be made in his memory to Enumclaw Plateau Historical Society, 1837 Marion St, Enumclaw, WA 98022 or by calling 360-825-3356. https://www.enumclawhistorymuseum.com/