Giovanna Borghese of Arlington, loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away after a short illness on March 1, 2023 surrounded by her family in Hermiston at the age of 84.
She was born on Dec. 27, 1938 in Ascoli de Piceno, Italy during the dictatorship of Benito Mussolini at the beginning of World War II. As a young child, she survived the war and the post-war struggle to rebuild. Among her earliest memories were seeing American bombers fly over her city on bombing raids, German and then British troops occupying that city.
Giovanna married Victor V. Borghese in 1960, then built her life in Arlington working at the elementary school and raising her children, grandchildren and a great grandchild. She delighted in cooking her favorite Italian dishes for them throughout their lives. She was an avid follower of her family’s involvement in Arlington Elementary and High School sports.
She is survived by her sister, Guiseppina of Rossetto-di, Italy; her children, Frank, Mark, John and Julie; her grandchildren, Matt Borghese, Anthony Valdez, Diego Valdez, Analisa Valdez, Ella Borghese, Ava Borghese and Enzo Borghese; and one great-grandchild, Azriel Borghese.
Giovanna was preceded in death by her husband, Victor V. and a daughter, Carmen.
Recitation of the Holy Rosary followed by Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church in Arlington.
Burial will follow at the Arlington Cemetery.
Please share memories of Giovanna with her family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
