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Harry Holden Obituary

Harry F. Holden Jr. VIRGINIA BEACH - Harry "Skip" Holden Jr., 78, a resident of East Coral Key, passed away July 16, 2010 in a local hospital after a lengthy illness. He is survived by his wife, Mary L. Holden; his daughter, Rebecca Holden; his son, Eric Holden with wife Sharon; and two granddaughters, Paula and Misty. He was predeceased by his eldest son, Matthew W. Holden. Also surviving are three sisters and numerous extended family and relatives. A native of Lima, Ohio, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17, residing most of his life on the Atlantic Coast. His career in the military was a unique and successful one, spanning more than 32 years. His career began as a young enlisted sailor who advanced through the enlisted ranks, officer ranks and completed with his retirement as an LDO commander and aircraft maintenance officer of the Oceana Fighter Wing. While serving in the military, he was assigned to numerous U.S. Naval fighter squadrons and tours of duty. Skip enjoyed memberships with various local civic leagues and organizations often sharing his entertaining tales and humorous antidotes. Those who knew him well, will remember his positive attitude and cheerful spirit, he was one who never met a "stranger." A funeral with full military honors will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday in Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Lynnhaven Chapel. The family will receive friends at the funeral home today from 4 until 6 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Sunday. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Navy Marine Relief Society, c/o www.NMCRS.org. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.

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Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Jul. 17, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries

Elaine Holden Deeley

August 9, 2010

Thanks for you condolence. Yes, Skip will be remembered by many people. I
know I was lucky to have had him for a brother. I miss his weekly phone
calls and our long political talks. He loved coming to California, he had
several friends who lived here. I am sorry I never met any of his
California Friends, but Skip always was very secretive about mixing friends
and family. I didn't go to Virginia Beach for the funeral. However, I did
make arrangements to have a very private service on board the USS Midway.
Several years ago this aircraft carrier was decommissioned and made into a
Museum now docked in San Diego. Since Skip had severed on board this
carrier on a World Cruise during his early Navy Career. I was able to have
a special private good-by from the flight deck. My family, gathered early
on August 1 for our special send off. We had loaded an iPod with "Anchors
Aweigh", "The Navy Hymn", and "Taps". We pulled all the petals off the
roses, from our garden, put them in a basket. We played the music as we
tossed the petals from the bow of the carrier. Fred read his obit and we
shared our favorite stories. Then we all went to Breakfast at a restaurant
where Skip had eaten. I feel Skip would have approved of our very special
memorial.
Elaine Holden Deeley

GENE CLEMENS

July 29, 2010

Just heard today of Skip's passing. He was my Maintenance control officer when I was the Maintenance officer of Red Rippers in the early 60's. With out a doubt one of the most dedicated and sincere people I worked with in my 32 years of Naval Service. Thanks for the memories....Skip...Gene Clemens Atlantic Beach FL

Misty Kersenbrock

July 19, 2010

You will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours

Richard Fraley

July 17, 2010

Many Memories Harry,of our Red Ripper days. Rest in peace old friend.

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