Dean Borg
April 21, 1938 ~ March 22, 2020
Eldean 'Dean' Borg of Mount Vernon died at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics on March 22, 2020, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 81.
Eldean was born April 21, 1938, in Forest City, Iowa. The oldest of eight children of Albert and Addie Borg, he learned the values he showed throughout his life: a strong work ethic, service to others, a keen focus on family, and deep faith in God. As is entered in the Congressional record, he epitomized 'Iowa nice.'
He married Linda Leach of Forest City on August 31, 1957, and together they had four sons: Randy, Barton, Lindsey and Matthew. Linda died September 21, 1973. Eldean married Sheila Feeney of Rock Island, Illinois, in September 6, 1975. Together they have a daughter, Kierstyn (Mickelson).
Eldean became a letterman at Iowa State University as a half-mile runner as he earned a bachelor's degree in journalism. He also earned a master's degree in public administration from the University of Iowa. His love for Iowa State was evident throughout his life as he supported a wide variety of programs and initiatives. He was honored with Iowa State's Distinguished Alumni Award in 1988. He loved football Saturdays with his family and fellow Cyclones.
He was commissioned as a second lieutenant through Air Force ROTC upon graduation from Iowa State in 1959. He merged his focus on public service with his love of journalism as he served on active duty for four years as an Air Force public information officer. He continued to serve as an Air Force reservist and rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel.
At the urging of his broadcast director, Eldean became known publicly as Dean as his civilian broadcast career took shape at WMT Radio and Television in Cedar Rapids. He approached his work as a reporter and news director from the standpoint of serving the listeners, giving them access to information and insight as he covered stories across the state and the world, traveling to Vietnam to report on Iowans in the war there and to Paris for the historic peace talks. His professional career expanded in 1973 when he became director of public information for the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. In this role, he helped to connect Iowans, Midwesterners and the nation to the hospital's growing premier specialties.
In addition to his full-time work at UIHC, Dean became host of Iowa Public Television's weekly show 'Iowa Press' shortly after its creation in 1971 and led the program for more than four decades, leaving the role in 2017. He felt a strong responsibility to use the weekly forum as a way to give Iowans the opportunity to learn about important issues and viewpoints and was known for his insightful questions that got to the heart, and truth, of issues. He retired from UIHC in 2010 and went back to his roots in radio as a senior correspondent for Iowa Public Radio and its WSUI station. Through his career he interviewed every president from John F. Kennedy through Barack Obama and countless state officials and citizens.
His work at UIHC and on broadcast channels earned him many awards for outstanding achievement in communications and journalism. He also repeatedly was recognized for his lifelong engagement in community service and his passion for helping others. Although his work often put him in a spotlight, he preferred to be a streetlight giving people a clearer view. No matter the environment, Dean approached his reporting from the standpoint of public service and always was ready to shift into reporter mode when he saw an opportunity to give others connection to a story. Despite his many professional roles and their wide variety of interests, he held himself to the highest standards of objectivity in his journalistic approach.
Although his professional pursuits took large portions of Dean's available time, he found ways to give more of himself through active roles in his church as a teacher and lay leader, support for youth programs like 4-H, service on school boards for Mount Vernon Community Schools and at the state and national levels. He also served on multiple boards and advisory councils and the American Legion, including more than four decades on the board of the University of Iowa Community, now GreenState Credit Union. He also loved to spend time outdoors and was a lifelong arborist and caretaker of nature. He found great joy in time with his family, especially to share stories of treasured memories and life lessons.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife and siblings Marlin, Shirley and Pauline. He is survived by his wife, Sheila, his five children and 10 grandchildren: Christopher and Devan (Randy and Barbara); Zachary, Lucas and Elaina (Bart and Laureen); Tanner and Nathan (Lindsey and Deb); Emily and Anna (Matthew and Lynda); and Caroline (Kierstyn and Kent). He also is survived by siblings Betty, Sharon, Lyle, Julie and their families.
He will be buried in Mount Vernon, Iowa. His family will hold a private funeral and burial due to precautions around the coronavirus pandemic. A memorial service may be scheduled later in the year. The Borg family invites memories of Dean to be shared on his tribute wall at https://www.stewartbaxter.com under obituaries. Arrangements are with Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Mount Vernon.
In lieu of flowers, to honor Dean's lifelong interest in learning and opening doors of opportunity consider donations to the Mount Vernon Community Schools Foundation (See Link Below) to help to fund an annual scholarship for a high school graduate, or to the Iowa PBS Foundation (See Link Below) to help fund an annual internship for a college student pursuing a degree in journalism.
Dean's family thanks the wonderful doctors, nurses and other health professionals at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. They were his colleagues and friends over many years and his caretakers in his final days.
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Dean was a man who once taught my Sunday School class when I was young teenager. He claimed and proclaimed his love for GOD, JESUS and the Biblical truths of the gospel. Deep inside , even when I was not living for GOD, I wanted to be like Mr. Dean Borg. So grateful GOD placed him in my life. Blessings to his family.
Dean practiced balance as a journalist, and by balance, I mean he spoke from the heart (conscience) and from the mind (consciousness). His unique talent was evoking that balance in others, humanizing them, as guests in “Iowa Press” and as sources in his news reports. His character was impeccable. That empowered him in a quiet, humble way; when he looked you in the eyes, you told the truth, not out of fear, but out of some cosmic, higher obligation. Dean stood for truth, and that will be his legacy, for without truth we cannot have love. I loved him and will miss him.
I obviously knew who “Dean Borg” was as a fan of IPTV.I got to know him better in the last decade though our common Legion Post where he served as a variety of officers, but always as Senior Officer of Deep Thought and Advice. He was “even” in tense situations, and usually got to the core of any issue right quick and offered sensible solutions. He had a dry but witty sense of humor and enjoyed a good joke.I know his family is hurting, as are all that knew him, but what a life: respected, admired , trusted, loved and emulated.Who could ask for more? Rest easy Colonel.
Mark and I are so very sorry. We will always remember and respect Dean as one of the most kind and thoughtful men we have ever known. Our sympathies to the Borg family and the whole town of Mt. Vernon.
There’s so many beautiful things in life that Dean shared with us as a dedicated loving father, his military service to the country, and his profound intellect as a top news journalist and TV news broadcaster for the great state of Iowa. Even more, I do remember Dean as a remarkable human being that gave so much to others within his long life: enduring grace with great poise and dignity, the ultimate respect to his peers in the field of journalism, and profound and great love to his former alma mater, Iowa State University. But most of all, Dean’s enduring compassion and kind affection to others that symbolized his willingness to help others regardless of the task or difficulty. In ending, peace be with you and may gods grace shine upon you.
Sheila – I’m so sorry to read of the loss of your husband. Please know you’re in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs and Blessings. Linda Noppe Anderson
He was the best in every way….
My friendship with Dean was a small part of his busy life but his friendship to me played a big role in mine. He was a lifeline. His many kindnesses to me make for a very long list and he helped others so reflexively, with such generosity, I have never seen his equal. I am so sorry for your loss. God bless you.
Dean was a long time friend and brother in Christ. We served togeher at Immanuel Baptist Church in CR. His gentle and wize ways reflected HIS Lord. Dear family, I will miss him along with you. Time a roles separated our opportunuties for closeness, but we will soon be together again. All I can say is “What a GREAT guy” ! God’s blessings of Peace be with you each.
Being an only child with parents who have a large extended family it is sometimes hard to feel a connection to your family once your parents die. Dean did the eulogy for both my parents. After they died, he kept me connected to our family. He came to my kids special events. He celebrated successes in our life and was there when things didn’t go as well too. He called me every year to wish me a happy birthday. And he made sure I knew what was happening in our family. I will miss “my connection” greatly. Love and prayers to Sheila, Randy, Bart, Lindsey, Matt, Kierstyn and families.
This was certainly a life well lived. Dean will be greatly missed. Ed Fordyce
Deepest sympathies to Mr. Borg’s family. I met him when I was very young and he was a board member of the UICCU. He was such a nice man and I remember my father speaking favorably of him quite often. I remember my father respecting the combination of intelligence and common sense Mr. Borg displayed. He will be missed. God Bless
I was so sorry to hear of Dean’s passing. He leaves a life well-lived, exemplified in his long and illustrious career. It has to be so difficult in this strange time to mourn him, when social distancing prevents normal gatherings. My heart goes out to Sheila and his wonderful family. God bless you all with warm memories of a man of such honor and integrity.
Sheila-My heart is sad for you & your family, such a huge loss of a wonderful man that touched so many lives. He always brought a smile to my face and so many others. I will never forget the interview he did with our son, Nicolas. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. He will be missed by so many. God Bless. Nancy Wagner
Darin and I were so ecstatic when the Borgs started stopping at our farm to buy eggs and apples. We respected him as a journalist and learned that is was very down to earth. Dean was so encouraging to us! Our condolences to the family.
Eleanor Schaeffer Asbe I went to elementary school with Dean in a country school in Winnebago Co. He sang at my wedding in 1955. His mother and my mother were good friends living a half a mile from each other. Dean was such a talented man. I feel very fortunate to have known him at one time In his life.
My condolences to the Borg family. I always thought of Dean as our local version of Mr. Rogers. He just had such love and patience in his eyes and heart. You always felt good when you were in his presence. He will be missed. – Gabe Allard
As a friend and former next-door neighbor, I fondly recall that at Christmas time there would be a knock at the door, and there stood Dean and his boys. They would come in our home and sing a few Christmas carols. We were always so delighted. Fondly, Dave Penn
Dean Borg wore many hats in his life and most Iowans knew him as a respected journalist and longtime host of Iowa Press. He will more importantly, for me, be remembered as my cousin Eldean. Always participating in our gatherings whether it was an important family event and celebration or just a Sunday afternoon coffee get together in the country. And in recent years he gladly accepted the patriarch “position” in our extended Borg family. Through his leadership and with other members of our family, he ensured the survival of our beloved Borg-Lindh-Johnson Family Reunion in Forest City. His voice and presence will be deeply missed by us all in this our 82nd year. Rest in Peace Eldean. May our Lord Jesus Christ comfort and strengthen your family. Michael Hendrickson & family “I heard a voice from heaven say, ‘Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on’. ‘Yes,’ said the Spirit, ‘let them find rest from their labors, for their works accompany them.’ ” Rev. 14:13
Dean was one of the finest men I had the privilege to know as a friend and colleague (IPT’s broadcasting team for the Iowa high school state wrestling tournaments for nearly two decades). And Dean was most impactful in my life during my time coaching his sons, Bart and Lindsey, who were both a coach’s dream to mentor. As a wrestler’s father Dean always supported me respecting my leadership even when I’m sure he observed many flaws in my ways as a young coach. Dean was always there to encourage me in his quiet and reassuring manner, reminding me about the purpose of sport for young athletes. I looked to Dean as a champion in life that I wanted to emulate. I celebrate Dean’s life here and look forward to reunions with friends and fellow Christ followers like Dean in heaven. Praying God’s grace and comfort during this time for Sheila, Bart, Lindsey and the entire Borg family. (Isaiah 26:3)
Dean was a class act. His work as a broadcaster was exemplary, honest and truthful. I had the opportunity to meet Dean when we attended school board conventions. Gods speed Dean.
Years ago I attended a Bonjovi concert and sat beside a lovely young woman who introduced herself. She asked if I knew who Dean Borg was. I said “Of course.” She beamed and said, “He’s my dad” in a voice filled with pride and love. I never forgot that look on her face; she was so grateful to be Dean’s daughter. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Dean was a soft spoken man with a deep faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
I met Dean Borg once: Monday before election day, November 1970. I guess that’s fifty years ago. I was a college student in Mt. Vernon, Iowa. I wanted to go home to Cedar Falls to vote, so I made up a sign that said “Home to Vote” and went out to Hiway 30 to hitch hike home. Very soon a car pulled up, and it was Dean. I recognized him immediately, and he started interviewing me right away as I got in the car. He thought it was cool I was taking the trouble to go all the way to Cedar Falls just to vote. He took me to the west side of Cedar Rapids, and filmed me as I waited for my next ride. That evening on WMT he ran a short feature on my trip, so Dean Borg put me on TV. — Don Fish 2003 N. Myrtle Davenport, IA 52804
Mary and I are saddened to learn of Dean’s passing. I first became ‘acquainted’ with Dean as a farm kid. At noon every day, my parents would turn on Dean’s farm report on WMT TV at noon. It was a must! Later, I had the great fortune as an employee of the credit union where Dean served as a Director and Board Chair for many years, to get to know Dean, Sheila and their children. Of course, we knew his work with UI Hospitals and with Iowa Public Broadcasting, as well. What a great role model he was, and an example of professionalism, family devotion and community service to all. Our deepest sympathies to Sheila, Randy, Bart, Lindsey Matthew, Kierstyn and their families.
My condolences on behalf of the Ryan family. In addition to his well documented professional life, Dean gave an extraordinary amount of time and effort giving back to the town of Mount Vernon…school board, city committees/planning, American Legion, church and town festivals, sporting and music events, Bauman’s coffee…you name it, Dean Borg was there…a life wrapped in quiet leadership and volunteerism…something for all of us to emulate and consider. The words “thank you” don’t seem to be nearly enough at this time. Be well Borg Family!
The Middle School Wrestling matches were finally over at the Tipton gym. It had been a long day and I was ready to go home. As we left, I turned back to make sure Grandma was following us. That is when I saw Dean Borg graciously assisting Grandma (a lady that he did not know) down the bleacher steps. It was a fleeting moment that occurred decades ago, but Grandma never forgot that unexpected gesture and neither did I. While I knew who Dean was, I did not know him personally at that time. Years later when we were better acquainted, I mentioned that incident to him. He did not recall it. I was not surprised because I believe he was only doing what was ingrained in his nature, to show kindness to others.
Sheila & Family, Sandy and I offer our condolences and deepest sympathies. It was my good fortune to be Dean’s news colleague at WMT starting in 1965 and later at The University of Iowa. Dean’s high standards, professionalism and boundless energy lifted us all up. Dean made a difference. What a guy. He is missed. — Tom & Sandy Bauer
I have so many fond memories of times spent together with Dean and Sheila in our church Growth group. It was during those small group conversations that Dean would often offer words of encouragement to others while also challenging us to reflect more deeply using his thought-provoking/probing questions – a well-honed journalistic skill that he used masterfully in our discussion time. Those questions challenged all of us to reflect deeply on our faith and our own understanding of scripture and I will be forever grateful for those moments shared. Yes, he was one of Iowa’s and specifically MV’s respected ‘public figures’, but more impressive was his strong faith and sincere love for others that made him a kind and genuine friend to many as his lived out his faith daily on this earth.
Sheila. Kierstyn, and boys, I was shocked when I learned of Dean’s passing, seems like I just talked wiith him. Dean was a gen, he was the most knowledgeable man I have ever met and never to boast or brag. He was honest, true and up front with everything. Never one to hurt anyone’s feelings. There will NEVER be another Dean Borg. I don’t think he ever raised his voice or said no to anyone. He is loved and will be missed by so many. Loving memories of Dean, peace be with you all at this difficult time. With hugs and love, Annamae Baker
I want the entire Borg family to know how much the Hagenson family from Thompson loved and admired Eldean! Eldean was the ringbearer in my Grandpa Marion and Grandma Marge’s wedding. He years later gave my grandparents many tickets to Iowa Basketball games which they were thrilled to go! As the years went on , my dad Allen was so happy to spend time with all of his Borg cousins and loved to help Eldean and Bart at the farm with the John Deere tractors. As a young boy growing up, we would gather to watch Eldean on TV and tell anyone who would listern “that’s our cousin!” The thing I will remember most about Eldean was his love for family and always taking time for family no matter how far he had to drive or what else was going on in his life, he put family first ! Rest in Peace Eldean, Winnebago County, the State of Iowa and the United States of America are a far better place because of you! Scott Hagenson, Brandon Hagenson and Heidi VanHalle
The School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Iowa sends our condolences to the family.
As a longtime listener of Iowa Public Radio and a former Iowa Board of Regents staff member, I gained great admiration of Dean and his thoughtful, thorough and insightful reporting and CARE of good journalism. He was a class act and an inspiration for many. Deepest sympathies to the Borg family.
I served as an intern under Dean at the U of I Hospitals and Clinics. I was a young, eager and very inexperienced college student who had no school support for pursuing an internship after my freshman year. Dean gave me the opportunity to prove myself. Not only did he ask me to come back the following summer, but UNI gave me academic credit when they learned what I experienced and who I was working for! Dean is a kind, supportive and energizing soul. I was very sad to hear of his passing! I will never forget him.
Dear Sheila, Randy, Bart, Lindsey, Matthew, & Kierstyn, We are very blessed to have had Dean in our personal lives-as family. Dean had many quality attributes, among them he was most honorable, considerate. A kind and giving man. He was a fair man who never excluded but always included others. We will miss Dean tremendously. We have many happy and laughable memories of Dean. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a true beacon of light in our family. Sharing many great Thanksgiving memories with him. He will never be gone from our hearts and memories. We will miss him dearly. We lost a wonderful man. Heaven gained a wise angel. Our Deepest Condolences and Love Jay and Christine Feeney
Just enjoyed an Iowa Press look at Dean and his role in its success. I know he was more than that show to his family and friends and I’m sorry for that loss. Yet, I can’t help but think well of a guy from eastern Iowa who commanded such civil discourse in the state capital. Somehow I think he played a larger role in our state and nation than many with whom he shared his program. Well done, Dean.
We will cherish our memories of a wonderful friend, Patriot, educator, speaker, and all around great guy. Dean agreed to speak several times at our Memorial Day service at Campbell Cemetery, and he was thoughtful in sharing about his service. He was humble and obviously devoted to his time in the Air Force and was glad to share this part of his life. He learned truths as a child that remained with him, and grew more evident as time went by. We thank the Lord that we were blessed to know him and his wife Sheila. Coffee breaks at Brothers and seeing him at Community Bible will be missed. Jerry & Althea Anderson
Dean will be remembered as a tremendous leader across the state as well as at home in Mount Vernon. But I might suggest his biggest legacy was being a great husband and father. God Bless the entire family at this time and may your memories of him be with you always. Dennis Jordan
My mother Anne and I wish to extend our condolences to Sheila; and Randy, Barton, Lindsey, Matthew, Kierstyn, and their families. Dean and his family were friends of my parents a half century ago, and thus Dean was one of the first adults who made an impression on me. A visit to the Borgs at their home out on the highway to Mount Vernon was always a treat to me. It was also gut-wrenching to watch as Dean and his sons weathered great tragedy with real faith in Christ’s ultimate deliverance and vindication–which was forthcoming. In hindsight, I remember Dean as a man of great warmth, with concern for the well-being of those around him. Given his calling as a reporter, he combined these traits with a piercing sincerity.
In the early 80s while I was a news videographer/editor for the Cedar Rapids ABC affiliate, I got a call from Dean that changed the trajectory of my career. Dean asked if I would like to help him start a TV unit within the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Department of Public Information. He formed a great team and together, we did just that! We grew to include a three camera studio, two offline editing suites and mobile production equipment. On behalf of the Children’s Miracle Network, we filmed so many remarkable stories…children who received and staff who provided, exceptional care on a daily basis. We created thoughtful, informative programs to educate patients and their families about what to expect during their hospital stay. And we produced news programs featuring the latest UIHC medical achievements making a difference in people’s lives. I never took a moment for granted while in that extraordinary hospital environment and working for Dean Borg. He was a force…a visionary who empowered and inspired those who crossed his path; and he was such a vital, smart and kind news voice for our region, state and beyond. I stayed in the rewarding role as chief producer for 15 years. Thank you Dean Borg for making that phone call. My heart goes out to his family and myriad friends across the globe. He will be missed…and remembered always. ~ Jane Champion
I had the great pleasure of serving with Dean for several years on the advisory board for the Iowa Broadcasting Archives. Dean was thoughtful, intelligent and had considerable institutional memory on the topic of broadcasting in the state of Iowa. As a fellow broadcaster, my respect for Dean and his career accomplishments are indelible. As an Iowan , I am proud we produced such a great broadcaster and person. Jim McKernan
Tonight at our church youth group, I’m teaching about Mark 2:1-12. To help the students understand the verses, I’m sharing about a time that Dean helped me. I was four years old and very sick. Dean got me into the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics with an excellent physician. If you want to figure out more of the symbolism, you are going to have to crack the Good Book. I still find myself treasuring my memories of Dean and thanking God that I got to know him. I don’t expect to accomplish things to the grand level that Dean did, but from his example I also serve in my community just on a much tinier scale. Borgs, pausing to pray for you. It’s been a few years, but he’s still worth missing.
-Lauren (Penn) Oliphant