Karoline J. Borst

Rotterdam - Karoline Jean Borst, affectionately known as Kay, was born on November 19, 1935, in Schenectady, New York, to Ludwig Peper and Jeanie Taylor Peper. Ludwig, an immigrant from Germany, and Jeanie, who hailed from Scotland, instilled in Karoline the values of unconditional love and care for others. Karoline graduated from Draper High School in 1953.

Karoline was predeceased by her beloved parents, her sister Alexis Peper, her brother William “Bill” Peper, and her firstborn son, Jeffrey Jay Borst. She is survived by her high school sweetheart and husband of seventy years, Carleton Borst, her three sons: Steven Borst and his wife, Heather, of Duanesburg; Douglas Borst and his wife, Karen, of Billings, Montana,  David Borst and his wife, Laura, of Babson Park, Florida, and her daughter Susan Volenec of Durham CT. Karoline’s legacy continues through her nine grandchildren: Colin Borst (Erica) of Middle Grove, New York; Lauren Meyer (Scott) of Burnt Hills, New York; Matthew Borst of Mariaville Lake, New York; Brian Borst (Sammy) of Billings, Montana; Evan Borst of Billings, Montana; Zachary Borst of Floyd, Virginia; and Jackson, Julian, and Evangeline Volenec of Durham, Connecticut. She also leaves behind her great-grandchildren, Seth, Aidan, Taylor Garrison of Middle Grove, New York; Molly, Colton Borst of Middle Grove NY, Calvin Meyer of Burnt Hills, New York.

Karoline and Carl enjoyed an active social life, participating in various clubs and community events, including the Mohawk Valley Antique Car Club, the Mohawk Valley Wood Carving Club, and the Draper High School Reunion Committee. They cherished their many bus trips with the Duanesburg and Princetown seniors and traveled extensively, visiting places such as Hawaii, Bermuda, Scotland, England, Switzerland, Germany, and Canada.

Known for her remarkable baking skills, Karoline’s pies were a favorite among family and friends. She tended to a beautiful garden filled with vibrant vegetables and flowers. In addition to her gardening, she enjoyed bowling, camping, and birdwatching.

Karoline Jean Borst will be deeply missed by all who knew her, remembered for her kindness, nurturing, and the joy she brought to every occasion.

Calling hours will be held Monday April 7th from 10 am – 12 pm at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home 1605 Helderberg Ave., Rotterdam.

A 12 noon service will immediately follow.

Karoline will be laid to rest at Schenectady Memorial Park, Rotterdam.