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BORN
1953
DIED
2025
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Barby Borchardt Obituary
Born: May 9, 1953 in St. Louis, MO
Died: July 17, 2025 in DeKalb, IL
Barby Belle Bafaro Borchardt, 72, died peacefully on July 17, 2025, at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital.
Barby was born on May 9, 1953, in St. Louis, MO, to Thomas Bafaro Jr. and Louella (Ossenberg) Bafaro. Barby was a 1971 graduate of Incarnate Word Academy, Normandy, MO, and a 1975 graduate of Kansas Newman College, Wichita, KS, with a degree in elementary education. She taught primary grades over a 31-year career in four states, including the last 27 years at St. Mary's Catholic School in Sycamore, IL.
Barby was united in marriage to Robert James Borchardt on June 24, 1977, in Creve Coeur, MO. She is survived by her husband, Bob; their three children, Robert William, Brian Thomas, and daughter Margaret Mary (Kevin Light); and Barby and Bob's grandson, Brian, "Babycakes" Daniel. Barby is also survived by her brothers, Joseph (Joanne) Bafaro of Timonium, MD, and Michael (Rachel) Bafaro of Creve Coeur, MO.
In her many years as an educator, it was clear to students and parents alike that Barby was not simply doing a job, she was following a calling. Her ability to connect with, champion, and celebrate her students brought her immense joy until her retirement in 2013.
Barby wished to extend her heartfelt thanks to all her former students and their parents for trusting her and giving her the gift of doing what she loved most.
Per her request, no visitation will take place. To honor her memory, we invite you to enjoy a baseball game with your loved ones, tend to your garden, or cozy up with a good book-especially one from your local library.
A scholarship fund will be established in the future to celebrate Barby's life and continue her dedication to education.
A private interment will be at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Sycamore, IL.
To sign the online guestbook or share a special memory, please visit www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barby Borchardt
Sponsored by Butala Funeral Home & Crematory - Sycamore.
3 Entries
Jordan Lynden Bute
July 26, 2025
Barby was always so very kind to my brother and me when she was a chaperone for her children's friendships. I was also aware of her abilities in the classroom and slightly jealous of my brother and her son Brian. She continued her work day at home encouraging her children with their studies and activities, pursuits she felt were of more importance than weary hearted thinking and actions. Her intelligence will be missed.
Alexandra Wenger
July 24, 2025
Barby or Mrs. Borchardt, to this day is one of my most favorite educators to date.
I think arguably making such a lasting impact on small children, who remarkably continue to remember their Kindergarten teacher for decades speaks to the profound impact she left on so many lives.
She was whom undeniably kick-started my love of reading. Her encouragement, empathy, kindness and the amazing ways she found to connect with her students truly is a testament to her dedication and love for teaching.
I feel so lucky that I knew her and pray deeply for all whom loved her and will miss her.
May God hold you all in his love as you all navigate this loss. Lean into one another and the beautiful memories you shared.
Wishing that you all continue to feel her love surround you until you meet again.
Sincerely,
Alexandra Wenger
Vince Calendo
July 23, 2025
Mrs. Borchardt was my kindergarten teacher at St. Mary's.... she was the best. All these years later I still have memories of being six years old and in her class. She impacted so many... such a great life!
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Butala Funeral Home & Crematory - Sycamore1405 DeKalb Ave, Sycamore, IL 60178
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