William Borth

William Ames “Bill” Borth left this world on July 9, 2021.  Born February 2, 1959, he was preceded in death by his parents Louise Winifred Borth (née Ames, b. Markesan, Wisconsin) and Paul Frederick Borth (b. Sheboygan, Wisconsin).  Bill was a lifelong resident of Park Forest, having graduated from Rich East High School in 1977.  He attended Bradley University and completed a BA in Anthropology at Roosevelt University in 1984.  During his studies there he was Assistant Field Supervisor for an archaeological dig and served as a research assistant at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago.  (In other words, he “prepared” road kill specimens for examination.)Possessing a rapid fire, wickedly keen, sense of humor, Bill delighted in finding irony and wisdom in life’s inconspicuous corners.  Once asked how it was he could be so funny, he said it was simple.  “I just remember everything I ever read and heard.”  And he did. Bill’s life was spent in service to others, whether it was through his employment in the food industry or in his personal life.  He frequently left a lasting impression on his customers at Vincenzo’s in Homewood and Flossmoor Station Brew Pub in Flossmoor, where he served as both a waiter and manager.  Steadfastly dedicated to improving the lives of others, he championed his coworkers and customers alike.  His enormous love for humanity was extended to all—friend and stranger.  Those who were fortunate enough to encounter Bill found refuge in his spirit. Much of Bill’s free time was spent pursuing experimental cooking inspired by recipes ancient and new.  (Anyone for steak and kidney pie?)  He loved to travel, particularly to Florence, Italy, where he absorbed the sights, smells, and sounds of the city.  Classic cars were an ongoing interest, as were “Monty Python” and “SNL” reruns, scoring bargains at thrift stores, farmers markets, and unfiltered Camels.  Perhaps music spoke to him most deeply, for he had a wide-ranging, eclectic collection from which he would spontaneously sing a lyric perfectly encapsulating a moment during conversation.  He remembered all, indeed. Bill leaves behind a circle of close friends, kind neighbors, and those whose lives he touched.  A celebration of his life has not yet been scheduled.