Paul Braun "Harry" Holden

1918 - 2015

Paul Braun "Harry"

Holden

Born in San Francisco, California, February 6, 1918, an only child born to Helen and Louis Braun. (Christened, Harry Jack Braun).

Harry died peacefully surrounded by family in his home on April 1, 2015.

When Harry was only five years old his father died on one of his trips to Ohio while working for the State and Roper Stove Company. Harry and his mother traveled to Ohio by train, to bring his father back for burial. Harry and his mother then moved to Seattle to live with her mother, Harry's grandmother, Susie Lowe. Harry's mother, Helen, was a vocalist, singing teacher and professional entertainer, traveling abroad to support the family. During this time, Harry was cared for by his grandmother and many aunts and uncles who doted on him.

Harry attended St. Benedict's grade school, Lincoln High school and graduated from the University of Washington with an Electrical Engineering degree. While attending the University his mother married Paul M. Holden, who subsequently adopted Harry. At which time, Harry changed his name to Paul Braun Harry Holden.

After graduating from the University he was employed by Seattle City Light. During this time he went into the United States Navy, stationed in Cambridge, MA. While in the Navy he received the appointment of Lieutenant Commander. In 1942 he married Dorris Lewis while living in Boston. They had their first child, Carla. They moved back to Seattle in 1945 and were favored by three more daughters, Paula, Teresa and Mary.

Harry was devoted in his Catholic faith. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and a loving husband to his wife Dorris. He was also a devoted and loving son to his mother throughout her lifetime.

The family spent many happy summers at their cabin on Hood Canal. Harry loved to tinker with things. He could always find a use for "duct" tape. Harry enjoyed gardening, fishing, playing Bridge and Pinochle. He also had a passion for photography, winning an award for one of his photos. He loved to read. History was a favorite but he enjoyed all kinds of topics. Music meant a lot to Harry. Both his mother and father were musically inclined. Harry was gifted with the ability to play music by ear. You could often find Harry and Dorris playing duets, he on the organ, she on the piano.

Harry and Dorris enjoyed many wonderful trips together. They also loved going to the Husky Football games. Even though, in later years, Dorris needed to use her walker, they always made it up the ramps.

Harry's career as an electrical engineer was extremely rewarding to him (known as Paul to those who worked with him). Not only did he love his profession, he also made a tremendous amount of life long friends throughout his career with Cooper Industries, retiring at age 70.

After Dorris died in 2005 Harry continued to live in his home and be very involved with family and friends.

Harry was blessed with an outgoing infectious personality full of kindness, humor, fun and some would call trickery.

He passed away on April 1,...was it a coincidence?

We are forever thankful for all the love and laughter you brought into our lives. We were so blessed to have you for 97 years. You are now with our Lord in His Heavenly Kingdom.

We love and miss you

always and forever.

Harry was preceded in death by his beloved wife Dorris; daughters Paula and Carla. He is survived by his daughters Mary (Daniel) Lyons, Teresa (Mike) Buckland; grandsons Cory and Jon and many friends and cousins. Together Again....