Robert Holmes

Robert Alan Holmes, 69, of Birmingham, rode his final sunset on November 2, 2025, at Country Lane Manor in Keosauqua, IA. He was born on August 15, 1956, to Don and Barbara (Pratt) Holmes, Bob was the only son among four children, a role he wore with both pride and a mischievous grin. Growing up in Birmingham, he shared his childhood with his sisters Deb, Cathy, and Cheryl, forging bonds that would last a lifetime.
Robert graduated from Van Buren County High School in 1974 and wasted no time diving into the world of hard work and craftsmanship. He began his career at Seco in Mt. Pleasant, earning his welding certification and a reputation for precision and grit. Later, he partnered with his father to run DH Trucking, a venture that blended family and business, and eventually worked at EFI Manufacturing. Bob's heart was always drawn to the land-he found joy and peace working on the farm.
In 1990, Robert married Lani Glass, and though their paths later diverged, the story of their time together remained a cherished chapter in his life.
Bob was a man of many passions. He was rarely seen without his Harley-Davidson, the rumble of the engine echoing his love for freedom and adventure. He could fix just about anything with a wrench and a little ingenuity, and his involvement with ABATE of Iowa, District 14, showcased his commitment to community and camaraderie. Horses were another love-he raised and rode them, sometimes matching their stubbornness stride for stride. The outdoors called to him and he answered with countless hours spent fishing and hunting, savoring the quiet beauty of Iowa's fields and streams.
Bob's legacy is carried on by his daughter, Alexi Downey (Richard) of Cleveland, GA; his son, Brandon Hainline (Josie) of Bondurant, IA; his sisters, Deb Glass (Dan) of North Liberty and Cathy Wyatt (David) of Ruthven, IA; and his four grandchildren, Bailey and Paxten Hainline, and Bryce and Roy Downey. He is reunited in memory with his parents, Don and Barbara, his sister Cheryl Johnson, and his brother-in-law Allen Miller.
Family and friends will gather to honor Bob's life at a visitation on Friday, November 7th, 2025, from 4:00PM to 6:00PM at Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield. 2805 west Burlington Ave
A celebration of life will follow on Saturday, November 8th, beginning at 3:00PM at the Hock residence at 13751 Osage Avenue, Birmingham, IA-where stories will be shared, food and drinks enjoyed, and memories kindled around the fire. Memorials in Bob honor to ABATE of Iowa District 14 may be left at the funeral home, celebration of life or mailed to the family at 90 Sage Brush Drive, Cleveland, GA 30528. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com
Bob Holmes lived with a spirit that was unyielding, generous, and fiercely loyal. He leaves behind a trail of laughter, love, and unforgettable stories-a legacy that will ride on in the hearts of all who knew him.