Harold Borlaug

Harold Borlaug age 97 of Waukon, IA, died Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Aase Haugen Senior Services in Decorah.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Saude Lutheran Church, rural Lawler, with Rev. Peter Faugstad officiating. Inurnment will be held at Saude Lutheran Church cemetery following the service.

Friends may greet the family from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 12, 2025, at the church prior to the Memorial Service.

Harold Charles Borlaug, a cherished father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, at the age of 97. Known affectionately as Harold to his friends and family, he was born on March 26, 1928, the son of John and Clara (Johnson) Borlaug. He lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his farm, and his community.

Harold’s life was one of steadfast commitment, beginning with his education at West Saude Grade School, where he completed the 8th grade. Shortly thereafter, he embarked on a lifelong journey of farming, a vocation that he approached with passion and diligence. On September 13, 1959, Harold married his beloved Eunice Buri at Greenfield Lutheran Church in Harmony, Minnesota, and together they nurtured a family and a farm that would stand as a testament to their love and hard work.

The Borlaug farm was Harold’s pride and joy. He poured his heart and soul into raising cattle, chickens, turkeys, hogs, and meticulously tending to the land. His two expansive gardens were a source of great pride, and his tomato plants were renowned for their size and beauty. Harold’s skill as a master of smoking fish was well-known, and his ability to provide for his family and friends through his harvests and hunts was unmatched.

Beyond his agricultural pursuits, Harold was a pillar of his congregation. He served in various roles, including janitor, secretary, and trustee, and for several decades, he took on the solemn duty of digging graves. His dedication to his faith and community was unwavering, and his service was a reflection of his generous spirit.

Harold’s love for the outdoors was profound. He was an avid outdoorsman, with deer and fox hunting, as well as fishing, being among his favorite activities. His expertise in these areas was respected by all who knew him, and his camaraderie was cherished by his fellow hunters and anglers.

Each morning, Harold could be found at Jerico Jo’s, where he would gather with friends over coffee to exchange stories and share a laugh before starting his day. These moments of connection were a cherished part of his daily routine, and through them, he forged lasting friendships.

Described by those who knew him as handy, spirited, and generous, Harold’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and a life well-lived. Harold Charles Borlaug’s memory will be held in the hearts of his family and friends forever. His example of dedication, hard work, and compassion will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his legacy will live on in the land he loved and the community he served so faithfully.

He is survived by his two sons, Jonathan Borlaug of Waukon, IA, and Tom (Monica) Borlaug of Prior Lake, MN; his three grandchildren, Ashlee Borlaug, Benjamin (Katie) Borlaug, and Molly Borlaug; and three great-grandchildren, Peter, Quentin, and Harold Borlaug.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Eunice in 2018; his son, Todd Borlaug; and his sisters, Charlotte Swehla and Anna Borlaug.