Kenneth R. "Ken" Holmes

1952 - 2025

St. Augustine, FL/ formerly Janesville, WI - Kenneth Robert Holmes, age 72, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025, at Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL surrounded by his loving wife Julia and loyal siblings, Larry Holmes, Barbara Cook, Steven Holmes, and Mary Jo Strelchek. A native of Janesville, WI, Ken was born August 15, 1952, the son of John W. and Betty J. (Willard) Holmes. He attended the Janesville District schools, graduating from Craig High School in 1970.

Ken went on to enlist in the U.S. Army, serving his country in the Viet Nam War from May 16, 1971 to May 16, 1974. He attained the rank of SP-4 while serving his country. The U.S. Army recognized Ken for his honorable service with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. Kenneth rarely spoke about his time in the service, but he proudly flew the American flag, wherever he lived.

Upon discharge, Ken was employed by Parker Pen Company, Janesville, WI as a machinist for several years. He moved on to train as a welder at Morgan Corporation, Janesville, WI retiring after 16 years. For the past several years, Ken resided in the state of Florida.

Ken was a faithful and trusted family member and friend. When someone needed help, he was the first to arrive. Those Ken helped benefitted from his meticulous work as he took pride in whatever task he undertook. Ken loved being in the outdoors.

Although Ken didn't have any children of his own, he loved his nieces and nephews and always took the time to take them places and buy whatever they wanted. They always enjoyed their time with him, and they would come home with lots of stories. He also loved his new family from the state of Florida.

Ken is survived by his wife Julia; his siblings: Larry (Marge) Holmes, Barb Cook, Steven (Connie) Holmes, and Mary Jo Strelcheck; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Betty; brother John W. Holmes; and his brothers-in-law John Strelchek and David Cook.

There will be a graveside military service held at the Oak Hill Cemetery, Janesville, WI, on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 12:00 PM. A luncheon will follow the services at the Janesville Elks Lodge. APFEL WOLFE FUNERAL HOME, Janesville is assisting the family locally. Online condolences: www.apfelwolfe.com