Dr. Ronald T. Borchardt

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Ronald T. Borchardt, age 81, known affectionately as “Ron” or “Dr. B” to his students, colleagues, friends, and family. A Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University of Kansas-Lawrence (KU), Ron often said, "I did it my way," a testament to a life marked by unique achievements and profound impact.

Born February 18, 1944, in Wausau, Wisconsin, Ron came from humble beginnings. His parents, Helen and Martin, despite having only grade-school educations, instilled in Ron and his older sister Judi the value of education. Ron's early life, however, was more focused on sports and work than academics. He excelled in ice skating, baseball, and basketball, while also working various jobs to earn his way. A summer job in a factory, however, convinced him that college was a better path.

His academic journey began during his pharmacy studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW). While he initially enjoyed a lively social life, his study of organic chemistry ignited a passion for science. At UW, Ron worked in a research laboratory, which ultimately led to his first scientific publication and a shift in his career aspirations from pharmacist to pharmaceutical scientist. His gift for leadership and teamwork was evident even then, as a classmate remembers Ron as "the epitome of a colleague," always willing to help others.

Upon earning his B.S. in Pharmacy in 1967, Ron followed the advice of a trusted advisor and pursued graduate studies at KU under the mentorship of Professor Edward E. Smissman, a second father to him. Ron and his college sweetheart, Pamela (Bohl), whom he married on June 11, 1966, moved to Lawrence, Kansas, in June 1967 to embark on this new chapter.

This new chapter resulted in a nearly 50-year career at KU. Ron began his career in the Department of Medicinal Chemistry, eventually appointed as the Solon E. Summerfield Distinguished Professor of Biochemistry and Medicinal Chemistry. In 1983, he transitioned to the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, where he succeeded anothor mentor, Takeru Higuchi, as department chair. He remained Chair of Pharmaceutical Chemistry for 15 years, followed by two years as Acting Dean of the School of Pharmacy.

Ron’s career at KU was filled with publishing research, consulting with pharmaceutical companies, serving on scientific advisory boards, acting as editor of the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and many other professional responsibilities and accomplishments too voluminous to list. The most important part of his career was what he liked to call his “academic family.” This family consisted of nearly 170 master’s students, PhD students, postdoctoral students and visiting scientists from around the world that worked in Ron’s research laboratory. His dedication to education earned the Chancellor's Club Career Teaching Award in 2005. Ron retired from KU in 2015, though he maintained a professional presence in the field that he worked so hard to be successful.

In “retirement,” Ron enjoyed spending time with Pam working in their gardens, travelling, attending KU basketball games, and spending time at the family’s summer home in northern Wisconsin.

If you asked Ron about his biggest success and source of pride, it would not be something from his professional career; rather, he would say that it was his family. His loving and selfless wife Pam. His three children and their spouses, Scott (Julie), Paul (Susan), and Kelly (Philip). And finally, his four grandchildren, Noelle, Nick, Catie and Max. He wasn’t shy about telling strangers about his family, including their educational and professional successes. He was especially proud of the number KU degrees that the family holds:15 in total, with more in the works

Ron’s remarkable journey from a small-town Wisconsin boy to a "Giant in the Pharmaceutical Sciences" at KU is a powerful demonstration of hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of his loved ones and colleagues. He blazed a trail, leaving an indelible mark as a teacher, mentor, scientist, and collaborator, while still maintaining his passion for his family.

Following a private interment at Pioneer Cemetery, the family will host A Celebration of Life for Dr. Borchardt on August 16, 2025, from 2:00-5:00 p.m., at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Come and share stories about Ron with family, friends, and colleagues.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Ronald’s name to KU Endowment to support the Borchardt Family Pharmaceutical Sciences Scholarship and Award and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary or online gifts may be made here: https://kuendowment.org/Borchardt-Family-Pharmaceutical-Sci-Scholarship/

Supporting this scholarship and award, established by Ron and Pam, will ensure that Ron’s “academic family” continues to grow while honoring his legacy.