Arthur Herman Holste

Arthur Herman Holste, 86, of Kinnelon, New Jersey, passed peacefully on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Arthur was born on August 10, 1938, in New York, New York, to Herman and Frida Holste, both immigrants from Germany who met and married in Queens, NY. Arthur was a proud first-generation American who grew up with a deep appreciation for family and heritage. 

Arthur served in the U.S. Air Force as a Technical Engineer, where he earned a reputation for his remarkable ability to fix anything. Later on, he would dedicate 26 years of his life to working on mainframe computers as a Field Engineer for IBM. His natural talent for problem-solving and craftsmanship extended far beyond his professional life, and he was known by friends and family alike as someone who could always be counted on to lend a helping hand. 

In his early years, Arthur met the love of his life, Christine, while playing stickball in their Ridgewood, NY neighborhood. Their story began when they married at the tender ages of 19 and 21, and they grew up together over the next 65 plus years of marriage. Arthur and Christine created countless memories, building a life together that was rich in family bonds. They raised their two daughters, Elizabeth and Deborah, beginning in Ridgewood, NY and later in their cherished home in Kinnelon, NJ.

Arthur took great pride in his involvement in various bowling leagues and golf clubs, where he cherished the camaraderie and "friendly” competition. He was especially proud of his perfect 300 game in bowling and the thrill of his hole-in-one in golf. Stories he fondly shared time and again with friends and family, each retelling bringing a smile to his face. Arthur was a man of great generosity, humor, and determination with a larger-than-life personality. He was always ready to help others, offering his time, skills, and wisdom. His love for his family was immeasurable, and he found boundless joy in spending time with his grandsons, Patrick and Jack, who were his pride and joy. 

Arthur is survived by his beloved wife, Christine; his daughters, Elizabeth (Holste) and Deborah (Flatley); his son-in-law, Martin; and his grandsons, Patrick and Jack. He was predeceased by his parents, Herman and Frida (Hoelle) Holste, and his brother, Henry Holste. He also leaves behind his loving sister & brother in-laws and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

Arthur’s legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to comfort his family and friends for years to come. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105, in his memory.