Henry Ferdinand Borkowski was born June 19, 1844, in Borntuchen, Kreis Butow, Pommerania Germany. He spent his boyhood days in his native country, was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith and educated over there. In 1873 he was married to Miss Alvina Polzin and shortly after came to America, settling in Audubon County, Iowa.

In 1882, Mr. Borkowski lost his wife by death and was united in marriage to Johanna David in 1882. Mr. Borkowski was the father of 12 children of which two preceded him in death. Those surviving are eight sons, Emil of Wessington Springs, S.D.; Otto of Manning; Henry of Louisville, Minn.; Paul of Manning; and Albert and Leo of Audubon County; the five daughters are Mrs. Minnie David and Mrs. Anna Jurgens of Audubon County; Mrs. Alma Meyer of Omaha; Mrs. Laura Borkowski of Omaha; Mrs. Adeline Jurgens of Sibley, Iowa. He is also survived by 29 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, a sister, Mrs. Johanna Polzin of Audubon County and many other relatives and friends.

At the time of his death which occurred Friday evening, December 7, the deceased had attained the ripe old age of 90 years, 5 months and 18 days. About Thanksgiving Day Mr. Borkowski became indisposed and very weak and gradually declined until he was called to his reward peacefully and without much suffering.

Not very many of us attain that age and of those who do it must be said that it, is a blessing to them and theirs. Mr. Borkowski was a man of a quiet and noble disposition; a Christian pure at heart and in deeds. His wife preceded him in death in January 19 34, since then Mr. and Mrs. Otto Borkowski have been with the father and taken care of him.

Funeral services were held Monday, December 10 at 2 o'clock p.m. the afternoon from the Lutheran Church, his pastor the Rev. J.M. Ansorge conducting the services. Interment was made at the Manning cemetery. As pallbearers acted J.C. Reetz, Alfred Kuhl, F.D. Ross, Chris Hollander, H.C. Pahde, and Emil Kuhn. May his soul rest in peace