Henry G. Holmgren

His final wish was to die at home in the arms of his 44-year sweetheart and soulmate. Henry G “Hank” Holmgren’s wish was met on July 6, 2024. He was 92 years young and was a long time Worcester resident.   He was born December 11, 1931 and raised in Englewood NJ by Henry G Holmgren and Emmy O Rhamstrom.

Hank was welcomed into heaven by his sisters and their husbands Betty and Carroll Nelson, Emmy and Will Jones and their son David. Also preceded by his in laws Dr. Richard and Helen Abbott and their son Richard.

 Henry was a gentleman who lived for his family and took great pride in them. Left behind to mourn his loss is his cherished wife and the love of his life Deborah Abbott Holmgren. His adored sons and their wives who were more like daughters. Stephen H and Debbie A Holmgren of Paxton, Christian E and Lisa M Holmgren of Dudley. He was a treasured “Beeka” to his grandchildren Nicole K and Jacob R of Dudley. He loved that role and instilled values of hard work, integrity and compassion in them. Whether it be his grandchildren or nieces and nephews he loved attending their sporting events and school activities, rarely missing any.

 Hank became a brother to his sister-in-law Lynne Abbott Francolini and also leaves behind nieces and nephews, Jeff Jones, Lisa Nelson, Nancy Roberson, Mark Nelson, Gary Jones, Jonathan Maynard, Christopher Maynard, and Renee Francolini. Several great nieces and a great great nephew. He also leaves a daughter, Martha Davis and her family of East Brookfield.  Hank was proud to have served his nation in the U.S. Airforce, in the Korean war, he was a radio operator as a Staff Sergeant, first class.

 Upon his return from Korea, he maintained a farm while attending Cornell University full time. He earned his Bachelor of Science then embarked on a career as a feed salesman for McMillen Feed. He then became a Junior high school teacher of math and science in the Westborough school system. His unwavering commitment to making a difference touched countless young lives. He has been retired for over 30 years, and there are still students who reach out to him. While teaching in Westborough he attended Worcester State University to obtain two master’s degrees, one in health education and the other in psychology and counseling.

He was a member of the MTA, NEA, RSCMEA, and VFW. He performed with the Mendelssohn singers and Worcester County Light Opera. Hank had a variety of interests, but especially reading, gardening, banana splits, teddy bears, live theater and concerts. When in high school, he was involved as an equestrian team member. He performed in a horse show at Madison Square Garden, NY and was nearing a position on the Olympic Team. Unfortunately, the Korean War evolved and squashed the opportunity.

 Hank left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know him. His well lived life is a legacy our hearts will treasure forever. Rest in peace, sweet man.

 Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Friday, July 12th from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be held Saturday, July 13th from the funeral home with a procession to Trinity Lutheran Church, 73 Lancaster St where his funeral service will be celebrated at 10 am. Burial with Military honors will follow in New Howard Cemetery, Sutton. In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis or the Tunnels to Towers foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306