Timothy J. Holdcroft

Timothy J. Holdcroft, 62, of Ferguson Township, PA, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on August 22, 2025 after surviving his first heart attack and emergent heart surgery just one week earlier. Born on June 18, 1963, in Pittsburgh, he was the son of the late Robert and Margaret (Gribben) Holdcroft.

Tim is survived by his devoted wife, Michele Holdcroft (née Arnold), and their children: Steven (Alisha) Holdcroft, Robert (Alexis) Holdcroft, Jill (Jordan) Yahiro, and Jessalyn (Terry McLinden). He was the proud grandfather of Brodie, Levi, Eden, Vera, Rose, and Jeffrey. He is also survived by his siblings Bob (Melissa) Holdcroft, Margie Claffey, and Michael Holdcroft.

Tim's life was defined by his faith in Christ, demonstrated daily through his acts of love and service to all those around him. His first love in this world will always be Michele. Tim and Michele met in high school, attended Penn State, and married on October 24, 1987. They built a wonderful life together– raising four children in a home filled with unconditional love and joy. Tim devoted himself to his four children and was the best dad. He led by example with patience, kindness, gentleness, care, and encouragement. Each of his children knew they were his priority. Tim provided for his family by working for Xerox for 37 years. To him, Xerox was another place to connect with people, make friends, and serve others, while allowing Michele to focus on raising their children. Together as a team they were the best parents any child could hope for.

Tim adored his six grandchildren, who called him "Papa". In turn, they adored him with starry eyes and enormous smiles. He never missed an opportunity to be with them and to care for them without regard for distance or personal difficulty. They will forever be blessed by his demonstrated love for them. Tim was also a beloved and devoted son to his parents, brother to his siblings, uncle to his nieces and nephews, and friend to his many cousins.

Tim had a lifelong passion for ice hockey, a sport that brought him joy and lasting friendships. As a proud member of the 1984 national championship Penn State Hockey club team, he formed strong bonds both on and off the ice. He dedicated himself to coaching and mentoring high school and college athletes, helping them grow not just into skilled players but into remarkable individuals. Tim remained an integral part of the Penn State alumni community, staying connected to the sport and the people who meant so much to him. He played hockey throughout his adult years with the GeoHabs and the Thursday Night Hockey crew, playing his final game just one week before his passing. Each winter, he built an ice rink in the backyard, turning it into a gathering place where friends, family, and neighbors were always welcome to lace up their skates and share the joy of the game he loved.

Beyond hockey, he forged lifelong deep friendships with his high school classmates, college roommates, neighbors, and church friends. Tim loved to connect with his brothers, children and friends on the golf course. He was a member at Toftrees Golf Course and participated in numerous annual outings and events. He was an avid cyclist, biking solo and in group rides including RAGBRAI and the annual "Bike Trip" in the Finger Lakes. Together with Michele, they pedaled many miles along roads and rail-trails exploring scenic areas of Pennsylvania and beyond.

Tim will be known for his joyful spirit, grateful heart and unforgettable sense of humor. He had a natural ability to connect with others in a magnetic and genuine way, making instant friends. To those who knew him best, Tim was the embodiment of loyalty and reliability – someone you could count on. He was content in all circumstances; he simply sought to serve those around him in each moment. All the while, his sense of humor brought laughter, smiles, and joy to anyone blessed enough to know him.

Though Tim's passing brings deep sorrow to his family and many friends, they rejoice in the assurance that Tim's steadfast faith now places him in the presence of Jesus in heaven

There will be a Gathering of Friends and Family on Thursday, August 28th from 4:00-8:00pm at Sperling Funeral and Cremation Care 700 Blazier Drive, Wexford, PA . A Celebration of Life Service will be held in State College, PA in October (date TBD)