Martin Holmes

1925 - 2012

Martin K. Holmes
November 11, 1925 - November 25, 2012
Using his own words, Martin "crossed the Jerdan" to his home in heaven this week. His family surrounded him at his bedside for his final hours.
An Arkansas native, Martin was born in Pine Bluff, then spent his Depression-era youth in the Ozark town of Cotter. His mother, sister, aunt and stepfather formed the foundation of his family, and he told many stories about his vast extended family throughout Arkansas. An easygoing, southern lifestyle, with a heavy emphasis on fishing, remained with him throughout his life.
Martin joined the Navy at 17 and qualified to serve in a then-new shipboard radar program. After World War II, Martin left the armed forces, graduated from the University of Arkansas and started down the career path of print journalism.
Martin enjoyed his years as a sportswriter and reporter for the Arkansas Democrat in Little Rock. Among his assignments was the 1957 racial conflict at Central High School, which became a national incident and remains a notable point in civil rights history.
In 1956, Martin married Rebe Walker of Little Rock. They would have celebrated their 57th anniversary this January. Martin and Rebe had two children, Walter and Rebecca. Together, they made a monumental move to California in 1968, when Martin accepted a position as a copy editor with the Modesto Bee.
At the Bee, Martin held a variety of news-related positions had many great friendships with co-workers. In retirement, Martin fished at New Melones while telling tall tales with his buddies. He was a regular player on the golf courses with numerous friends. No matter what, he rooted for the Arkansas Razorbacks.
Martin took the time to enjoy five grandchildren as they grew up in the area. He could be seen at their various childhood and youth events, always having a good time. As they became adults, his grandchildren were a source of pride to him and he never tired of keeping up with them all.
Martin was a member of St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, and Wellspring Anglican Church over the last 44 years in Modesto. Martin served on the Salvation Army Advisory Board and the local branch of the Retirement Housing Board, including a term as president. He assisted the McHenry Museum as a docent.
Martin's legacy of family and faith can be seen in the high value he placed on knowing and loving others. He always found the humorous side of any situation and let minor troubles tend to themselves.
Martin is survived by his wife, Rebe. Their son Walter (Linda) Holmes has three children: Krissy (Caleb) Bartels, Will (Danielle) Holmes, and Corrie Holmes. Their daughter Rebecca (John) Buckel has two children: Lissa Buckel and Emily (Steven) Thalin. They have one great-grandson. Remembrances can be made to Community Hospice or a favorite charity.
A memorial service is scheduled for 2:30 PM, Sunday, December 2, 2012, at Wellspring Anglican Church in Modesto.
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