John Holmquist

1936 - 2025

-John Holmquist died on October 8th, 2025.

First and foremost, John loved his family. He was blessed by having two daughters, Holly Holmquist and Allison Remington, and two grandchildren, Oliver and Isla Remington - all of whom survive him.

John was born on November 20, 1936 in Los Angeles and spent his youth in Pasadena. He was educated in schools in that area and then went to UCLA, where he received a degree in economics. While there, he was a member of Phi Kappa Psi.

As a boy, John was fascinated with the vastness and the challenges of the sea. This interest would lead to surfing and sailing. In 1959, he participated in the Transpacific Yacht Race from Los Angeles to Hawaii. After the race, he was part of the small crew that sailed back to Newport Beach.

John joined the U.S. Marine Corps after college, where he achieved the rank of Captain. He was stationed in the Asia-Pacific region and also participated in the Cuban Missile Blockade.

Leaving the service, he began a lifetime career in the commercial real estate business, starting in California with Coldwell Banker (now CBRE Group), where he became a Senior Vice President. After moving to Idaho, he was with the Broadbent Development Company and Paragon Commercial Group (now Colliers International), where he was a partner and Executive Vice President.

He married Julie Forbes in 1965, and they enjoyed their time together in Newport Beach until 1972. In 1971, they embarked on a memorable fishing and camping trip to Idaho, which left a lasting impression on them. Captivated by the beauty of the area, they lived in both California and Idaho in the years that followed. Although their marriage ended in 1996, they continued to maintain a strong bond through their shared love for their children.

In his later years, the challenges of the Idaho outdoors replaced his interest in the sea. John spent many hours fishing and bird hunting and enjoyed the uniqueness and pleasures of the small towns of Idaho. He had deep friendships from all stages of his life. An avid reader, John was known to keep in touch by mailing letters and articles matching the broad interests of his friends.

John lived the rest of his life in Boise, thinking how fortunate he was to be in Idaho and have so many wonderful friends and a loving family. He considered himself blessed, indeed. There will be a private family memorial.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boise Schools Foundation - ATTN: Boise High Track & Cross Country.