Donald R. Borden

Imagine a world in which your best qualities were all that people noticed - that is what it was like to be around Don.”

Obituary

Donald Ray Borden (4-18-1952 to 6-21-2026). How do we say goodbye to our beloved Don? Friend to all, his greatest gift was his generosity. Fun-loving, and a bit of a rascal in his younger days, he shared his love of life with all of us. A harder working man could not be found. 

Don was born in Buffalo to John and Lois Borden. He was a mechanical wizard and could fix almost anything. He was devoted to his family and always there for them.

Don was the loving husband to Pamela for over 26 years. He was the devoted brother to Susan Marie Borden and Gail (Edward) Dahlke; uncle to Erika Braun and Kristen (Jesse) Kozlowski; great uncle to Noah Braun; stepfather to Adam (Karen Siedlecki) Burgoon; and grandfather to Gwendolyn and Griffin Burgoon. 

Don attended Lancaster High and worked at Gateway before moving to Jamestown and opening Don’s Car Wash, which later became a gas station, convenience store, bakery, and more! After his business was sold to his “adopted son,” Jay Bowen, Don opened a chain of can redemption centers in Erie County. Don was the epitome of an entrepreneur, always finding a way to make things work. 

Don loved football and was a Bills season ticket holder for over 40 years. He was a dedicated golfer and loved to fish. Don was always helping others and his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the example he set as a first-class human being. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 25th at Rotunda Grapevine Railroad Farm (307 E Main Rd, Fredonia, NY) from 1-4:30. Don wanted a party, so let’s celebrate him together!

Please RSVP (all guests) at www.online-tribute.com/DonaldBorden, so we have enough food and beer!

Memory wall

July 3, 2026

My husband and I sold Central Station Restaurant last December, but I certainly enjoyed welcoming Don almost every Friday: Dinner for 2 @ 6pm. Thank you Don (and of course Pamela!) for being wonderful customers.

Kathleen Dennison

July 1, 2026

So sorry to hear of your loss . Our thoughts and prayers are with u

Mary Jo La Clair and Rick

June 28, 2026

A kaleidoscope of memories tick through my head.

Don selling me 900 cans of Moslon Canadian at cost, from his Jamestown store, to stock my 3-day beer pong tournament.

Don introducing me to every used car dealer in Jamestown, making sure I got a good deal on that 99 Corolla after I got back from Afghanistan.

Don explaining the ins and outs of why there's no market for recycling glass bottles.

What can you say about a guy who could effortlessly hang with kids 25 years his junior?

I guess my Dad nailed the most important bit. "Don had a good heart."

I know I'll miss him.

Nathan Stock

June 28, 2026

Don was my boss for a very long time and by far one of my favorite. Always cracking jokes when my Yankees lost one time cracking so hard I cried but laughed at the same time. Even if I was sick at work he would find a way to crack a joke. Always took the time to talk to the customers if he was in the store. He will be greatly missed by the people who knew him and the people that didn’t get a chance to experience Don. Condolences to Pam and family.

Dayna

June 27, 2026

Donnie as I new him was my cousin. We worked together with his father restoring many cars. It was always a hoot to be with him in that little garage behind his folks house.
My condolences to Suzie and Gail

Paul Zimmerman

June 26, 2026

Deepest condolences to Pam, Adam and the rest of the family. Instantly hit it off with Donnie the first time we met as we all know was such a great guy. Had many of great times in Saratoga at the track and playing golf. He will truly be missed.

Chris kowalczyk

June 25, 2026

I always enjoyed speaking with Don about football especially the Buffalo Bills. Don had to wait to talk about the bills and football in general. He often could predict who would be the featured player and if the bills would be successful.
I considered Don to be the president of our little book club.
We would make waitresses frustrated and uneasy at times but after we tipped them they looked forward for us to return.
I'm sure the lord had a place for Don to have taken him so early in his life.
May he hold him close and give him peace.
If Don can have a word with the big guy I believe he'd ask for a nose guard with 4.5 speed 6'9" and graduated from a ivy league school.
God bless, rest in peace.

Daniel Tilburg

June 25, 2026

Don was one of a kind, and will be greatly missed. We had a lot of great times! I’m happy to report that all the small mouth bass in Lake Erie are now safe, but I’m concerned that Pam may go hungry now. RIP Donnie!!

John Frame

June 25, 2026

I have known a lot of people over the years Connecticut, California, Indiana, Florida, Alaska, Donnie’s at the top of the list, absolute sweetheart of a guy he will be dearly missed

MICHALDOINO

June 23, 2026

Donnie was truly one of a kind and will always hold a special place in my heart. He was incredibly kind to me throughout my childhood and continued to be a wonderful presence in my life as the years went on. I was fortunate to have him at my wedding, and later he had the opportunity to meet my children. Donnie had a remarkable way of making a positive impact on everyone he met, and his kindness, warmth, and generosity will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with Pam, Adam, and the entire family during this difficult time.

Brian Calloway

Celebration of Life