Don Holmes

Don Wallace Holmes age 89 was reunited with his sweetheart of 67 years. Grandpa passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Grandpa was born on October 25, 1924 in Vernal, Utah to William Wallace, and Emma Christine Holmes. Grandpa worked hard from the time he was a small boy, until he was in his 80's, and Grandma was sick. His top priority then was to care for her every second of every day. Grandpa lived through many things in his life. This included the Great Depression, and being shot in World War 11. Grandpa was awarded a purple heart for the injury he sustained. He was very proud of his service in the military, and never regretted serving his country for one second. Grandpa's life experiences taught him to work hard, and to be thankful for everything he had.

On May 10, 1946 Don married the love of his life Norma Rosella Willer Holmes. Together they raised 6 children; Sheryl, Buzz, Dawna, JoAnn, Joella, and John. No matter what they did, or where they went their family was always together. Don's family meant everything to him. He loved to spend time down at the creek, riding horses, roping, hunting, and camping with his family. He always looked forward to the cattle drives in the spring and fall so he could spend that time with his family. His family truly meant everything to him. He enjoyed every second they could all be together.

Don had many jobs throughout his life. From delivering propane, sheering sheep, Gilsonite mining, running a rock crusher, and farming his land. He always worked hard to support his family. He was a fair and honest man, whose handshake, and word meant the world to him.

Grandpa always said his "Golden Years" were not about how much money he had, or things he owned, but about his family. His "Golden Years" were spent with his children, and grandchildren. You never left his door without an "I love you!" Grandpa would thank you for coming to visit, and tell you to please come back again. He loved his grandchildren with all of his heart; they were his pride and joy.

Don is survived by his children; Sheryl (Barry) Gale, Buzz (Wanda) Holmes, Dawna Hogan, JoAnn (Glen) Hislop, Joella (Jim) Burton, and John (Jody) Holmes. 18 Grandkids, 37 great-grandkids, and 2 great-great grandkids. Siblings; White(Bunny) Holmes, Duke(Gayla)Holmes, Mac(Marian)Holmes, Lorraine Slaugh, Glade(Darlene) Holmes; and sister-in-law Sharon Willer.

Don is preceded in death by his wife Norma; Son-in-law Richard Hogan; Siblings Glen Holmes, and Barbara Caldwell; Brother-in-laws Sonny Willer, Alvin, Norman,and Walton Willer, Earl Slaugh ,Paul Caldwell. Sister-in-laws Tootsie Kurtz, Elva Young, and Clarice Willer.

On behalf of the family, we would like to thank Good Shepherd, and especially Keri Jo for her excellent care, and compassion she had for Grandpa, and our family. A special thanks to Dr. Alma Parker, for his many visits to the home. Thanks to Ashley Valley Funeral Home for their compassionate services, and care of him. And to the American Legion Post 11 for his military honors. Grandpa will be truly missed by us all.

Graveside services were held Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at 11AM at the Vernal Memorial Park (1700 South Vernal Avenue.) With Military honors from the American Legion Post 11.