Kristen Lee Borup Obituary

The world lost a bright light on March 28, 2023, when Kristen Lee Borup of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away at the young age of 26. Born on December 9, 1996, Kristen made a significant impact on those around her in her short but meaningful life. Kristen had a love of life, which manifested itself in her many passions and pursuits. She would rather be outdoors than cooped up anywhere, and really wanted to "live in a van down by the river," thank you Chris Farley. She loved traveling and visited several states in her lifetime.

She collected rocks like each one was a little treasure. When all her pockets were full, she would have her shirt pulled up around more rocks than she could carry while still picking up "just one more" on her way to the car. She was fascinated with the sky and would sit outside staring at the moon and stars for hours when the mood struck. She loved her time outdoors and never wanted to see it messed up. She hated litter and would often collect a bag of trash from a bus stop to throw away. She had a deep appreciation for everything art.

Music radiated in her soul. She loved photography, always finding a way to get the perfect shot. And if she could imagine something she could draw it, then paint it. She made those around her excited about her passions and had the keen ability to bring people together. But Kristen's sweetest moments were in her kindness to others. She gave money and clothing to many homeless people, even making a special trip to a store if she thought someone was cold or hungry. She especially didn't want anyone to be without shoes, so she would almost always have flip flops in her car.

She talked with a smile on her face and a kind word for those she met. She embodied the spirit of giving, and her infectious optimism and boundless energy touched the lives of many. Kristen is survived by her parents, Donna and Jason Brodie of Phoenix, Arizona and Tony Reese of El Mirage, Arizona; and her older brothers, Josh England, David England, James Borup, and Chris Reese. She also leaves behind sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles, grandparents, and many friends who were touched by her bright spirit.

Kristen's life may have been short, but she lived it to the fullest. Her legacy of kindness, generosity, and joy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.