Russell Edward Holman

Russell Edward Holman Jr, 87, died peacefully the morning of October 20, 2020. He attended Deephaven High School where he graduated Salutatorian of his class, second behind his twin sister, Jean Stark. He graduated from the University of MN where he played on the University tennis team. After a short stint in the Army stationed at Thule Air Base in Greenland, Russ married Katie Holman (Jordan) on June 18 ^th , 1958 at Edina Baptist Church. Russ and Katie moved to La Crosse, WI in 1961.

He spent 35 years at General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) covering many miles of driving in the Tristate area working from GM dealer to GM dealer. After retirement from GMAC, Russ worked for Wehrs Chevrolet for 10 years.

Russ spent many early days on the tennis courts in La Crosse progressing to handball at the Y and then to golf, playing countless holes at Maple Grove and then Drugans. His activities included years as the Clerk of Course at his children’s swim meets or later watching grandchildren’s sporting events. He was an avid Bridge player being part of different Bridge clubs over the years. Russ and Katie joined First Baptist La Crosse in 1962 where Russ served as Treasurer for 40 years. His dedication to the church and his faith was a strong foundation for Russ and his family.

Russ is survived by his wife of 62 years, Kathleen “Katie” Holman, four children Steve (Monica) Holman, Mary Kay (Matt) Wolf, Sharon (Orlin) Engh and Paul (Julie) Holman. Russ was grandfather to Tiffany (Dave) Johnson, David (Malorie) Wolf, Nicole (Mark) Schlieve, Kevin (Jacque) Holman, Hana Sedlmayr, Oscar Engh, Maureen Holman, Jenna Holman, Kayla Holman. Russ was blessed to meet and love 10 great grandchildren. Russ was preceded in death by his twin sister, Jean Stark and granddaughters, Betsy Engh and Elizabeth Holman Melde.

A celebration of life will be held when the pandemic allows, to be determined at a later date. Memorials can be sent to First Baptist La Crosse, Great Rivers United Way and Living for Liz.