George Borovich, a native of Hollister died Jan. 7 at the age of
87.
George Borovich, a native of Hollister died Jan. 7 at the age of 87.
After living in Auburn for 30 years, he spent his final three years in Hollister.
He was the son of George and Katherine Borovich who were born in Yugoslavia.
He attended Sacred Heart Grammar school, Serra High school and two years at Gavilan College.
Following graduation, he worked in road construction securing small jobs in and around San Benito County. He later was employed by the Thomas Construction Company until his retirement.
During retirement, George and his late wife Mildred traveled to the Holy Land, Mexico, Philippines, South America and numerous parks in the U.S.
George was involved in growing cacti and other plants that often won awards at the County Fair.
While growing up, George was a “happy-go-lucky” student. He loved everyone, especially the nuns who he loved to tease. His best friend was the late Bill Markovich. All through grammar school he served as an altar boy at daily and Sunday masses at Sacred Heart Church. In the 30s, he was on the Serra High school basketball team.
George and his late brother Joe were like “two peas in a pod” during their pre-school days and up until second grade. Whenever they went to church or downtown, they were arm in arm. He was very protective of Joe. At basketball games, George was always concerned that Joe was close by. The two were always asking their mother when her birthday was coming as they had to remember their mother with a gift. It was always a pair of stockings or a box of candy.
His first job after High School was picking pears for Mr. Winnie T. Freitas in the San Jose Valley. The next year he and George washed trays for the late Jack Ricotti. The death of his brother Joe, who was killed on the USS Arizona, was a heavy loss to George. George prepared a scrapbook in memory of Joe and donated it for display in the San Benito Museum.
George is survived by his wife Ellen; son Joseph (Bonnie) Borovich; grandson Bryce; granddaughter Beth; and two sisters Lucy and Sister Eleanor Borovich.
A rosary will be held on Thursday, Jan. 13 at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in Auburn, at 11am with a funeral mass to follow. Burial will take place at the New Auburn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Sacred Heart School, 5th and College St., Hollister, CA 95023. Arrangements by Chapel of the Hills.
