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Gregory Holtz Obituary
passed away peacefully in his home October 14, 2012. He is survived by his loving wife, Ann Marie Rice, his doting son, Coleman Rice, his new grandson Marshall and his stepson Josh Clarno, who were faithfully at his bedside to the end. Greg was blessed with a brilliant mind; he earned four Master's Degrees, affording him many long hours and 32 years of employment at Boeing in Mesa, AZ. He never missed a Sunday read of the New York Times, found complete enjoyment parked in his easy chair watching the History Channel, and didn't mind engaging in a heated argument about why Wal-Mart is bad for local businesses. Although his mind was brilliant, he enjoyed the simple things. He loved his neighbor's kids as much as his own -- and was often caught reading the financial page to the babies. He loved his dog Wallace, walking Main Street and working as a volunteer on many of Mesa's community programs and the Catholic Diocese of Phoenix. He never ate a hot dog he didn't like -- and was known to stash peanut M&Ms by the LARGE bagfuls in places only a 3yr old could find. Sadly, he never cultivated a relationship with vegetables...and rarely looked twice at fruit. His preference was fried; chased with a beer. He served as a 'ho' with the Hohokam's --working every Spring Training season for the Cubs at Hohokam Stadium...joking that after he had a few more years under his belt he'd graduate to the 'hoho'... Cubs, DBacks, his son's and his neighbor kids' baseball games were often attended by him. His sense of humor wasn't diminished by his stroke. He often joked about the hawt nurses that attended him... 'wonderful' was one of his favorite words! Greg leaves behind not only a Barnes & Noble gift card and Harkins movie passes w/two 2012 $1 refillable cups -- but a wife he adored, two sons he couldn't be prouder of, and a grandson he held on to meet. A celebration of his life will be Saturday, October 20th, 2012, at 9 AM, at Brophy Chapel, 4701 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012. In Lieu of flowers and in honor of Greg; be good to your children; treat your neighbors children like your grandchildren; make education your highest priority and help send a child to cancer camp www.azcampsunrise.org
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Memories and Condolences
for Gregory Holtz
October 26, 2012
Annie and Cole,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband Greg. I will keep you close to my heart and you will be in my daily prayers. May God hold you in His arms and comfort you through this difficult time. If you need anything, please call.
Love you, Cindy Bishop
Mark Kuhlman
October 23, 2012
So sorry to hear the news about Greg. My prayers and thoughts are with your family.
Deborah Jackman
October 22, 2012
Ann -
What a tremendous gift for you to have found Greg and Greg you 14 years ago. I hope that you, Cole and Josh cherish your memories of Greg, hold them close and keep his love in your hearts. In the heart and the mind are kept the most precious of keepsakes.
All my love - Deborah
Teresa Malkoon
October 22, 2012
Ann,
Greg would have been so touched by the beautiful funeral mass that celebrated his life in such a thoughtful way. You have inspired so many with your 24/7 devotion to Greg in these last difficult years of his life. Even with his communication challenges all your friends could see how much Greg adored you and Cole and what a gentle ,loving husband and father he continued to be. He was such a lovely man and our Lord has truly gained another angel in heaven. Your love story and loving dedication has been extraordinary to witness and you are a great role model to all my children. Love, Teresa
Jan Heritage
October 21, 2012
I'll always remember Greg's ability to inject humor into even the most serious situations during the years I knew him at Boeing. He was a special guy.
Bart Turner
October 21, 2012
It was a privilege this morning to attend the memorial service for such a good man. Among the many accomplishments Greg achieved in a life devoted to education, faith, and service, was to create "family" for my dear friend Ann, and her son, Cole. Ann, it has been wonderful to witness how lovingly you and Cole have cared for him since his stroke 3 years ago. He was blessed to have the two of you share his life. My thoughts are with you both.
Somehow, this time, words like "loss", "condolence", etc., just don't seem to fit. Greg truly was a man who had completed his service and was ready to go. His was a "graduation" if you will, from this life to the next. Godspeed my friend. You were a wise and faithful servant of the Lord.
margaret routhieaux
October 20, 2012
I will miss my big brother Greg very much.
Even though there was a fifteen year age gap we were still very close. I
loved when he came home from college or work to visit. One of my
favorite memories was Greg asking me to scratch his back for one hour
for a measly 25 cents while watching his favorite television show,
“Saturday Night Live.” Another fond memory of Greg was at my sister's
wedding in Helen Ga. Greg insisted on taking all the nieces and nephews
into the little candy shop to indulge in whatever their hearts desired.
He loved children like no one I've ever known. After graduating from high school I lived with Greg in Mesa in his lovely little
condo he loved so much on University. He
always made me feel so special. He wanted me to check out ASU but
instead I moved to Los Angeles and got married. I think he wanted some
family to move close to him, at least one of his siblings. In the last two
years when Greg became sick, mom and I traveled out to visit Greg three
times in all. We always tried to find a hotel near Greg so we could see
him as much as as possible. He still always wanted to know where we were
staying and what restaurants we were taking Mom to. He
always wanted the best for all of us but especially his mother. I love
you big brother and think about you all the time. I know you are with
Dad safe and sound. I will see you again someday. Your baby sister,
Peg
Neil and Patti Barna
October 20, 2012
Ann Marie, we are so sorry to hear the news. A great guy and my Hohokam friend. Sorry that we are not in town to attend services. Our sincere thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
Gene Ruch
October 19, 2012
I had the pleasure of working with Greg for 30 years. He was extremely intelligent and excelled in corporate financial management. He seemed to enjoy the challenge of our more complex projects. He became a manager in Accounting and taught many courses over the years on various financial topics. He was consistently sought out by key decision makers as a valued and trusted business advisor throughout his career.
Greg loved to recruit and train new college graduates and developed partnerships with local colleges and universities. Occasionally, he traveled throughout the country providing training and financial analysis services to various sites, affectionately earning the nickname "The Professor" , which always made him smile. Along the way, he received numerous awards recognizing his achievements. Greg truly loved his career and his dedication to the success of our company was extraordinary.
More importantly, Greg was a dear friend and colleague who cared deeply for those around him. Greg had a great sense of humor and will be missed by all.
Marta Tweden
October 19, 2012
Ann Marie, Cole and Josh. Greg was my friend and I will miss him and cherish the friendship we shared. Greg found true joy in working and surpassed others in his profound sense of family and community involvement. Greg, you are no longer suffering rest my friend in a state of eternal happiness. Roman chapter 6:7 “For a dead person has been absolved from sin.”
Claudia Holtz
October 19, 2012
Rest in peace Greg. Your memories will forever echo in our thoughts and our hearts.
Rose Munoz
October 19, 2012
So sorry to hear of the passing of such a dear soul. I too worked with Greg at Boeing and in all that time (over 20 years) I never heard an unkind word from him. He was one of a kind and he will be greatly missed. Prayers for strength for you Ann and your family as you continue in this journey without Greg. May God's peace that passes all understanding be with you and your family. RIP Greg!
Linda Hanf Kriegel and Michael Kriegel
October 19, 2012
We are so sad to hear of Greg's passing. I went to school with him in Lima from 1st grade at St. Gerard's all the way through high school. In fact, he may have been my first boyfriend in school. I couldn't understand why he "was mean" to me at school (first grade) until my mom explained that it wasn't really being mean, but that he liked me and was just trying to get my attention the way that boys do. Needless to say, I was flattered after that and still have those memories to this day. Wish we all would have stayed in touch since then. Sounds like he lived a very good and full life. Our prayers go out to all his family and friends.
David M. Holtz
October 18, 2012
Greg's legacy was so much bigger than just the past twelve years of his life. Although Greg was a wonderful husband and stepfather, Greg's legacy in terms of lives he touched was so much more profound. Any thoughtful tribute for a man so well liked and accomplished as Greg would be remiss not to acknowledge the wonderful parents that are responsible for bringing Greg into this world and shaping so much of his character and work ethic. Greg was born in Lima, Ohio in 1951 to Richard J. and Jean Ann (Dorley) Holtz the first of seven children. Richard “Dick” Holtz raised Greg to study hard and always believe in his own abilities. Jean Ann nurtured Greg and taught him many of the life lessons which served him so well throughout his career such as always being willing to step up for tough jobs, to always be fair with others, and always going the extra mile when serving others. They raised Greg to be strong and independent and Greg was thrust into a role of responsibility for helping to care for his younger siblings to which many of the “Norman Rockwell” like Holtz family photos attest. Greg was also a fine and honorable son and wonderfully adept big brother to six brothers and sisters. Although Greg never had any of his own natural children, he learned many of his “parenting” skills early in life while playing a patriarch like role to his younger siblings. Although Dick and Jean never understated the importance of knowledge, they also understood the importance of faith in their childrens' lives and sacrificed throughout their careers in order to send their children to Catholic school. Greg acquired many friends in his time at Lima Central Catholic. I remember the time he was all decked out in his tuxedo for the prom getting ready to leave in Mom's Pontiac Wildcat with his beautiful date and Don thought Greg was getting married. Greg set a high standard for his three brothers Steve, Dave, and Don and three sisters, Elaine, Paula, and Peggy to aspire to in terms of studiousness and achievement. I remember walking to the Lima Public Library with Greg and my sense of bewilderment as he attempted to explain the intricacies of the Dewey decimal system to my inquisitive nine year old mind. Greg had a natural aptitude for anything analytical. When we were kids with all four of us boys in one bedroom we had to learn to sleep with the light on because Greg would always stay up late reading books on everything from the Hardy Boys to business articles. I remember Greg belting out the Beach Boys “Barbara Ann” and “Eleanor (Gee I think you're swell)” by the Turtles when I was little. He couldn't sing that well but he still managed to be cool just on chutzpa. Greg was also a great uncle to his nieces and nephews. He played a pivotal role in the life of Paula's son Rick by helping him through some tough times and providing sage advice and timeless wisdom that would well serve any young man just branching out in life. Rick's success today as a fine sergeant in service to our country is in large part a testimony to Greg's encouragement and guidance. Yes, Gregory G. Holtz was a fine son, brother, uncle, and friend. Sing on brother. Now the heavenly hosts are listening.
Nancy Harrington-Carlson
October 18, 2012
Rest in Peace my friend.
Julie Fields
October 17, 2012
I am with heavy heart of the news of Greg's passing. I was honored to work with him for 22 years at Boeing. He was always pleasant and had a great sense of humor despite long hours and committment to his career. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and everyone who loved and knew him. RIP, my friend until we meet again!
Nancy Cottle
October 17, 2012
Always enjoyed working with Greg ... thoughts and prayers are with you and may you find comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Julie Fields
October 17, 2012
It is with heavy heart to learn about the passing of Greg. Working with Greg 22 years @ Boeing was indeed a pleasure for me. He always had a sense of humor and pleasant personality, despite working long hours and being dedicated to his career. I know he will be missed by all who knew and loved him! My thoughts and prayers go out to those closest to him. RIP Greg until we meet again!
Marty Sommer Peckham LCC class of '71
October 17, 2012
so sad hear of Greg's passing...I went to school with him back in Ohio...he was always brilliant and a true gentleman. God bless him and his family..
John & Susan Fynmore
October 17, 2012
Susan and I will miss Greg deeply. Thank you for including us at the family get togethers. We'll eat some M&M Peanuts and raise one high in his memory!
Kathy Norton Sherrick
October 17, 2012
Greg was a soft spoken, kind young man. I only knew him through our 4 years of high school but I will treasure my memories of him.
Mike Knellinger LCC '71
October 17, 2012
Condolences to Greg's family. May he be at peace.
Faith Spring-Cummings
October 17, 2012
Greg was truly a wonderful person! So very sorry for this loss of a great classmate....You will be missed by many family members and friends!
Andy
October 17, 2012
I had the sincere pleasure of both being a friend and working with Greg for 25 years at Boeing. Additionally, we were neighbors for a few years in the ‘90's. He was an extremely intelligent man who not only excelled at work but who was also very active in community affairs including being appointed to the Mesa City Downtown Development Committee, the Cubs spring training organization and the board of his Home Owners Association.
I wish Ann Marie, Cole and Josh the very best as you have always been there for Greg and you are truly in our thoughts and prayers.
Judy Smith, John Petrilli, and Randy Schafbuch
October 17, 2012
We have worked with Greg for over 25 years and he was truly an extraordinary man and friend. We enjoyed every day we worked with him because not only did he work hard he made it fun and we laughed. He was passionate about his job and will be missed in the "Village" and never forgotten. He was so happy having Cole and you as his family. It has been a tough couple of years for all of you but you did an outstanding job taking care of him and he was truly blessed to have found you as his wife. You not only loved him you were able to show him how much you loved him in these last couple years. Our deepest sympathies to the family.
Monica Durkin
October 17, 2012
Ann, I am so sorry for your loss. He sounds like he was wonderful man with a great family. God bless you & the family.
Lois and Tom Mann, LCC '71
October 17, 2012
To Greg's dear family, My sincere sympathy on your loss. Greg was a high school classmate and I so enjoyed being around him. He was so friendly, kind, and had a wonderful sense of humor. He could always make you laugh.
God bless each of you and may your memories of this wonderful man make the days, weeks and months ahead easier as your journey continues without his physical presence. I know he has left you with so many great and loving memories.
Debbie Toska Borovitcky
October 17, 2012
I remember Greg from grade school and high school as a good guy. Sorry I lost touch with him. It sounds like he left behind a great legacy for his family.
Nick Feison
October 17, 2012
Greg, may you rest in eternal peace!
JoAnne Elser
October 17, 2012
Ann what a beautiful tribute to a man I wish I could have met! Holding you close to my heart and in my prayers! Love, JoAnne
William Valentine
October 17, 2012
Greg was a long time friend whom I sadly lost contact with. It sounds like he had a wonderful life. I have many great memories of Greg. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Toni D.
October 16, 2012
What a wonderful man he was and will be sorely missed. When I think of him I can't help but smile. I'm blessed to have met Greg and Ann who welcomed me into their home and made me feel so comfortable. God Bless Greg.
Barb Nicholas
October 16, 2012
I hope gregs memories will live on in his boys and grandson. May you all find peace in knowing he lived his life to the fullest and left a legacy of love!
Cassy McGinty
October 16, 2012
I loved Greg. I loved scratching his head and putting him at ease. His eyes were always inquiring, revealing the brilliant mind inside. He was a remarkable man and will be missed. Ann you have been such a good companion, nurse and champion for Greg, you deserve an award. Sorry I can't be there for the service. I'll be there in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandy Ober
October 16, 2012
Greg accomplished much in his short time with us. So blessed to have known him and happy for Annie and their family to have had him in their lives. He was truly a good guy and will be missed.
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