MARK R. HOLMES

Mark R. Holmes, 50, passed away peacefully at home of natural causes on May 2, 2018 in Kansas City, MO. Mark, a Kansas City native, was preceded in death by his father, Robert "Bob" Ray Holmes, and mother, Virginia Albers Holmes. Mark is survived by many close friends and family members, along with his dog and best friend, Shadow. Mark's generosity, friendship, and spirit transcend time and space.

Mark was an avid music enthusiast and is survived by many who shared his same passion for music, life and community. In his younger days, Mark was the party organizer who everyone called to find out where to be on a Friday night. He will be remembered as the music junkie who kept friends, both near and far, in the loop on new music, tours and remixes. His main passion was music, but he also cared deeply about his family, community and a global network of friends.

In his early years, Mark was a world traveler and photographer of destinations including Canada, Egypt, France, Holland, Mexico, South Africa and the United Kingdom. He also traveled across the United States and the Arctic Circle where he documented culture and wildlife. He also lived in Los Angeles with friends.

When he moved back to Kansas City, Mark managed his father's business, Razorback Plumbing at 5400 Troost Avenue. He later transformed Razorback into Coffee Break in 2003. As an entrepreneur and community leader on Troost Avenue, Mark was always looking to innovate and bring people together. The Troost bumper stickers he designed and sold did just that. At Coffee Break, he set out to create a space where friends and artists could gather. He often hosted special events and benefit concerts for causes including the March of Dimes, Bridging the Gap, KKFI, Los Punk Rods and the Midwest Music Foundation. In his later years, Mark was dedicated to caring for his father.

His resume included: President of Skunkworks Ops. on Troost, Owner & CEO at Mark's Elder Care, Owner of Coffee Break, Co-owner of Razorback Plumbing Company, President of Mark Holmes Images, Grip/Electric at Freelance Grip & Electric, Director at American Cablevision. He received a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Film and Media Arts and Economics from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and attended Rockhurst High School. He was also a Member of Rotary Club 13 of Kansas City, Mo and a Board Member of Tulips on Troost.

A Celebration of Mark's Life will be held Wednesday, June 13, 2018 at 6:00 PM at Record Bar, 1520 Grand Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64108. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Operation Breakthrough, 3039 Troost Ave., Kansas City, Missouri 64109 http://www.operationbreakthrough.org/.