James Alan Borders

James Alan Borders passed away on Monday, January 27, 2020. He was born Friday, August 8, 1941 in Akron Ohio, the oldest son of Alvin Marshall and Jane Price Borders. He is survived by his wife of fifty years, Deborah. Also surviving are his sister, Elizabeth Putjenter and husband Klaus of Eugene, Oregon, and several nieces and nephews. Although Jim had no children, he was named Godfather for three: Jessica Alley Stagg of Sammamish, WA. Justin Alley of Vancouver, WA and Kristen Kruckenberg of Bedford, MA. He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, David.

Jim graduated from Reed College in Portland, Oregon and continued his education at the University of Illinois where he earned his doctorate in Physics. He began his career at Sandia National Laboratory in 1968, where he worked until his retirement. While there, he participated in the investigation of the explosion of the center gun turret on the Battleship Iowa, and was part of the Sandia team that testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee. He presented his research findings at international physics conferences and had many friends throughout the world.

Jim enjoyed playing bridge, growing orchids, gardening, and skiing.

Cremation has taken place. At Jim’s request, no Memorial Service will be held, but donations can be made to The James Borders Physics Research Fellowship, Reed College, ATTN Kathy Saitas, 3203 Woodstock Boulevard, Portland, Oregon 97202-8199.