Don Holmes

With deep love and gratitude, we remember Don Holmes, whose life was defined by craftsmanship, devotion, and a quiet appreciation for the beauty of the outdoors.

He shared 69 years of marriage with the love of his life, "Shorty" Donna Holmes - a partnership built on loyalty, laughter, and deep respect. Though they never had children of their own, his heart was full. His nieces and nephews were his children and their children became his treasured "grandkids". He took great pride in watching them grow, always offering support, wisdom, and love. Some of his happiest moments were spent gathered around the table with family, playing poker, sharing stories, or teasing the grandkids about eating grasshopper sandwiches. This joke never failed to bring smiles and lots of laughs.

For more than 30 years, he co-owned and operated a hair salon with Frank Chambers, Holmes and Chambers Styling Shop, where his steady hands, attention to detail, and genuine care for people made him not just a stylist but a trusted friend to many.

Those same skilled hands later found joy in woodworking - carefully carving pieces and shaping arrowheads, turning simple materials into lasting works of art. With Native American heritage that he carried with quiet pride, this work held special meaning for him. Without any formal instruction for the craft, he took on his first "big project" - carving a slightly smaller-than-life-size bust of a stern-faced American Indian from a 4-foot tree. He later enrolled in a woodcarving course at Robidoux Middle School and visited with fellow woodcarvers at the annual crafts festival in Silver Dollar City. In Holmes' words, "It's something I really enjoy - the hours just fly by." Creating was never just a hobby for him; it was how he expressed patience, precision, and pride in doing things well.

An outdoorsman at heart, he loved fishing and felt most at peace surrounded by nature. Whether near the water or simply enjoying the open air, he found happiness in the quiet rhythms of the outdoors. He also had a deep love for animals, wild or tame, and they often seemed to adopt him as one of their own.

He will be remembered for his strong hands, gentle spirit, and the steady presence he offered to everyone fortunate enough to know him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the things he created, and the love he so freely gave.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bob Holmes; and nephew, Larry Holmes.

Survivors include his wife, Donna; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews; other extended family and friends.

Farewell Services and Public Livestream 1:00 P.M. Friday, February 20, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service. The family suggests memorial contributions to Central Christian Church. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.