Donald F. Holmes

BRINY BREEZES, Fla. Donald F. Holmes, of Briny Breezes since 1999, formerly of Rockland, Mass., passed away Oct. 6, 2008, after a long illness. Born in South Boston, July 15, 1933, Don was a 1952 graduate of Charlestown High School and honorably served in the U.S. Army as specialist second class in Korea from 1953-1956. Don was a 50-year member of IBEW Local 103 and worked for Mass Electric Construction Company as an electrician, retiring in 1994. Don also served as a wire inspector for the town of Rockland for many years and was an active member of the Rockland Jaycees. Don was a devoted husband and loving father. He enjoyed playing all kinds of card games, photography, reading and puzzles. He also traveled extensively after retirement with his wife Shirley. Don is survived by his wife of 50 years, Shirley, of Briny Breezes; two sons, Steve (and wife Karen) of Lancaster, Pa., and Tom (and wife Angie) of Rockland; three daughters, Ellen Boyd (and husband Norm) of Hooksett, N.H., Debbie Varley (and husband Scott) of Plympton, Mass., and Donna Cambio (and husband Patrick) of Rockland; 12 grandchildren, Sarah, David and Elizabeth Holmes, Cassandra, Aaron and Michael Holmes, Nicole and Matt Boyd, Stephanie, Dereck and Bryan Varley, Pat Cambio; and one great-grandchild, Owen Cambio. Don was predeceased by his parents, Edward J. and Wanda M. (Brooks) Holmes and two brothers, Walter and Thomas. In keeping with Dons wishes, there will be no funeral service. A gathering to celebrate Dons life will be held at BRs Monponsett Inn in Halifax, Saturday, Oct. 25, from 12-4 p.m. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to contribute to a local hospice in Dons memory.