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Justin Holbrook Obituary
Justin Brewster Holbrook, lifelong resident of Columbia Connecticut passed away courageously at his home Monday, February 26, surrounded by loved ones and his devoted Cognac and Otto.
He is survived by his loving family, beautiful wife, Andrea, joyful son, Luke and amazing daughter, Lauren. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Benjamin Iacovelli.
Justin was the son of Laurens Holbrook, Gloria Person Holbrook and the great- nephew of Florence Carter.
He also leaves his three siblings: Jill Grant (Columbia, CT) sons, Christopher and Matthew Grant; Nancy Holbrook (Woodbury, CT) son, Robin Fernandez and daughter, Ashley Fernandez; Daniel Holbrook (Columbia, CT), wife, Brenda and son, Zachary Holbrook; and godson, Andrs Fox as well as all his cousins from Colorado to Connecticut.
He leaves his many dear friends from all walks of life. Justin enjoyed all aspects of life and treasured the connections between people. Simple acts of kindness, the joy of his screaming kids at a seven-dollar carwash on a hot summers day, digging a hole in the rich earth, smelling the damp soil, and planting a tree. He knew the best gifts of life were not given they were experienced.
He would ask us all to remember him by holding a door for a stranger and to smile more because it makes the world a better place.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to: Santo Domingo Tribe, P.O. Box 99, Santo Domingo Pueblo, New Mexico 87052. 505-465-2214
Justin Brewster Holbrook
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Justin Holbrook
Stacey Oberg
April 23, 2024
My deepest sympathy for Justin's family. He will forever be missed in the Oak Hill Family. He always was the best person and made training a joy to go to. His humor, kindness and compassion will never be forgotten. Rest in peace my friend.
Stacey Oberg
Catherine Llewrlyn
March 26, 2024
From the first day I met Justin as a trainer at Oakville 2000 to the last day in 2020 he was always that happy person with great sense of humor. He'll be missed. My condolences to his family please be reminded he's in a better place no more sorrow no more pain may he rip.
Debbie Knowlin
March 26, 2024
Andrea, Luke, Lauren, family and friends.
My heartfelt condolences.
Justin was a stand up guy with a witty sense of humor. His selfless dedication, compassion, and love for people from all walks of life was unmatched.
Justin impacted many lives and will be sorely missed.
May God continue to strengthen you all during this difficult time of bereavement.
Linda J. Hamm
March 23, 2024
My sincere condolences to Justin's family and friends. I was deeply saddened when I heard about Justin's passing. We all loss a kind, compassionate, fun loving and gentle soul. Justin made our in- services so much fun, while learning at the same time. He always had interesting stories to teIl and was always interested in our life's as well. When I first met Justin on campus I was explaining something to him and I made a gesture with my hands like a begging dog and he never let me forget it, so every time he saw me he would use that gesture. Justin will truly be missed by so many, but he has left us with so many beautiful memories. Rest in Peace Justin until we meet again.
Steve Repass
March 16, 2024
I remember the first moment I met you and the last words we spoke, with 34 years in the middle. You are truly a great friend. One of my best.
As two of the trainers in an amazing group of people supporting the remarkable staff at Oak Hill we had a 20 year conversation that had no limits. Everything I know about Architecture, stone walls, and head stone carvers of ancient I owe to Justin. Fun was the order for the day and in addition to our duties with staff development we were quick to head out on an adventure when the moment called for it. Wells Woods, Wolf Den, Scarborough St., Cherry Hill, Harkness, where we were sure we found a dinosaur fossil exposed on the rock jette. (We later found out it was a natural rock formation).
I was first hand witness to Justin's kindness, generosity and compassion for the people he served. I saw him share his lunch, offer a ride or a listening ear and thoughtful response to anyone with need.
We laughed a lot, cried occasionally and shared the ongoing story of our lives, raising kids, living life, parents spouses yada yada.
God bless Andrea, Lauren and Luke, Justin's Life. So Justy (the only person who called me Stevey) I'll look for you in the spring blooms of the plants you dug from your own property for Kandi and I's evolving landscape! Thank you my friend.
Charles Pullen-Egharevba
March 10, 2024
My condolences to Justin´s family.
I knew him at Oakhill as one of our trainers.
He was always fun to listen, capturing your attention with his life experience stories. He will surely be missed.
May his soul rest in peace.
Rochelle G
March 7, 2024
Justin was always fun and welcoming. He made training days so much better.Training wasn't the same after he left and will never be.He will surely be missed. Sincere condolences to his family in this difficult time.
Jim Pellino
March 7, 2024
Justin's intellect and wide-ranging talents could have lead him down any number of career paths. How lucky are we that he chose to use his gifts to support and inspire the people who do one of the most important jobs in our society? He taught lessons both in the classroom and outside of it. I can still hear his voice directing us to daily "chop wood and carry water". Both "Office Man" and "Nature Boy": Rest in peace Justin.
Jim Pellino
"He was a man-take him for all in all. (We) shall not gaze upon his like again."
Chuck Anthony
March 6, 2024
Justin you will always be the Light of Oak Hill. My condolences to all family and friends! Rest in Peace!
Cheree Rhodes
March 6, 2024
Justin was a breath of fresh air. He always made training fun with his many stories. Praying for the family´s comfort during this difficult time!!!
Winsome R
March 5, 2024
I have precious memories of a man who could always put a smile on our faces no matter how awful we were feeling... He was definitely a soul that God gave us to make our days brighter... our walk easier...on this side of the world easier... I will always cherish the few memories I have of him... I offer my condolences to the family... continue to cherish the memories and may God hold you n perfect peace!!
Yvonne Ellis & the Sam Green Family
March 4, 2024
Justin always made our trainings fun! He was a light! Today I held the door open for someone in his memory. Sincere condolences to his entire family from the entire Sam Green family, he will be missed!
John Neagle
March 3, 2024
Thanks for putting a smile on my face every single time (hundreds of times over the decades)that we ran into each other at Oak Hill.
I cannot think of you without smiling or laughing. You made the day of literally, thousands of employees over the decades better with your silly stories, sunny disposition and exquisite comedic timing. Oh, we learned a ton when you taught modules at Oak Hill-but you made people feel good, all the while.
God Bless all the dear ones you leave behind. I´m quite sure you´d not be interested in us grieving, but laughing and smiling in this moment, and so I shall.
Rest easy old pal-
Joan
March 3, 2024
Joan
March 3, 2024
Joan
March 3, 2024
Joan
March 3, 2024
Struggling to find words to express what a joy it was to know and spend time with Justin, I will resort to an epitaph from the Old Yard- he was of too great and good a character to have anything worthy of him written here.
Thank you to Andrea and his family for sharing him with me and the greater community that all loved him, and my condolences for your loss. Like the stonewalls that he loved, his memory will live on in all whose life he touched.
Pearl Huggins
March 2, 2024
A heartfelt condolences to the family of Justin. May peace & comfort be yours during this season of grief.
Justin was like a bright star whose light illuminated through his humor in training classes, his love for his family and his caring attitude for humanity. He was such a wonderful person. Thanks to his family for sharing him with all of us.
Rest in peace Justin!
Pearl H
Ursula Roskoski
March 2, 2024
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to Andrea, Luke and Lauren for the loss of Justin. Although I did not know him, I understand that Justin was a wonderful, kind man and that his loss will be deeply felt for a long time.
Jessica Dale
March 1, 2024
Justin was one of a kind, I will miss him greatly....
Dexter Biggs
March 1, 2024
Justin was a wonderful person who was full of laughter with a great personality and very respectful towards others he made training at oakhill so much fun my Deepest condolences his family.
Judith Ortiz
March 1, 2024
As the president of the Columbia Historical Society, I have known Justin for over 14 years. He had a great sense of humor and was always willing to help when needed. I will miss his positive attitude as well as his ability to entertain us at the dog show or at the cemetery tour.
Sylvia Grant
March 1, 2024
I was blessed with working with Mr. Justin Feb 1, 2021 in NEO with Oak Hill. And I must say. That team was the best of the BEST! Such a pleasure when it comes time for any Oak Hill trainings you know that you are trained! Hands down! Just stories about Mc Donald´s ( shhhh don´t tell his wife :)) and the stories of his life experiences. Every class with him and Michelina had everyone willing to learn and grasp the material. Yes we worked and had fun in the process. Justin always would lend his listening ear to me when need be. Honest, loving, empathetic, hard working a love of his co workers, team and most of all Family! Anyone who has crossed his path a smile was always on his face.
Mr. Justin will be missed by all of us. To his family my deepest condolences for your loss at this time may God protect and guide you during your time of sorrow. It was a honor to have worked with him, taught by him. And lastly when I needed someone to talk to he always made time. I am blessed to have a part of his wisdom to carry with me on a day to day. When down and out I just think about " What would Justin do in this situation?" May his soul rest in peace. It was a honor
Candy Tracy
March 1, 2024
Justin always made training so fun. Full of laughs and got right to the important part of the training so everyone could enjoy yet move on and have the training complete for another year.
Mary Wadsworth
March 1, 2024
My love and condolences to the family. He was such a kind soul with a wonderful zest for life, good sense of humor and uplifting spirit. Gone way to soon, but I pray he rests in peace and that Andrea & family find comfort through fond memories<3
Nigel J Daniel
March 1, 2024
A wonderful soul who knew no bounds of generosity and kindness. Taken too early in life.
Martha Harvey
March 1, 2024
My heartfelt condolences to Andrea, Luke and Lauren and to the rest of the family and many friends who are grieving the loss of Justin. He was a kind, compassionate, and gentle man with a wonderful sense of humor, and a kind word for all. He will be greatly missed, and long remembered.
Marcia brown-balde
March 1, 2024
My deepest condolences to the family and friends I've known Justin since the beginning of my career at oakhill. He made training fun. He would always talked about his family and how wonderful they are it's like you know them how sweet. And he always has a smile on his face and yes he'll open doors for you with such pleasure he were a gentle soul to be around. My heart is broken no words can express my sadness your be sadly miss but not forgotten SIP
Nancy Holbrook
March 1, 2024
Justin was the best. We were privileged to have known him. He made our lives that much better. He was truly loved and will be greatly missed. To you, Justin.
Shanna York
March 1, 2024
Justin, I´ll always remember the joy and warmth you brought to my day whenever I saw you. Your smile was contagious, and it was really difficult to feel anything but a rush of happiness overcome my soul in your presence. You were missed before, and you´ll be remembered now exactly for who you were, a beautiful human being. It was an honor and a privilege to know you. "Miss York!"
My condolences to Justin´s family, friends, and loved ones.
Nicole Outlaw
March 1, 2024
Justin was my Oakhill trainer and a real pleasure to talk to when ever I had training I loved to see his smiling face and stories he told I really will miss him but I know I will se him again in Heaven his heart was great soul of energy I give my condolences to his family we have lost a legend
Gina Mazzone
March 1, 2024
Justin was an Amazing Light and he will be missed by everyone he touched. He shared stories of himself, his life and his beautiful family. He was an amazing person, friend and co worker. I am going to miss him.
Kelly Fantoli
March 1, 2024
My heart is filled with sadness upon hearing of Justin's passing .Justin was a patient at the dental office I am employed at and there was always a smile on my face when I saw his name on our schedule. He was always smiling and radiated such a positive energy.My sincerest condolences to all of his family.Prayers and peace.
Kelly Fantoli
Net Falcinelli
February 29, 2024
I'm so sad to hear of Justin's passing. We were fortunate to have him as an RPW in the Warren Abe Group Home before he went to the training department. He was always upbeat and fun and the guys adored him. He had such a giving heart--never more apparent than when one of the guys had an urgent need for a guardian and Justin was able to get his mom to step in and take on that role--which was life-changing for the young man. He always had a smile and time for a quick chat to catch up on our kids. Prayers for peace and comfort for his family. Rest easy now Justin and be at peace.
Lois Fortin
February 29, 2024
May there be an abundance of Fuji apples in heaven Justin. You were always a big personality and I'm sure you will be dancing in the clouds. My sincere condolences to your family and friends. Gone from this earth way too soon but may the memories made comfort your family through this extremely difficult time.
Stacy
February 29, 2024
Oh Justin.... From my very first and to my last training with you, you always made it fun and personable. From the family stories to the jokes that only were said cuz that meant you liked that person. And ohh the blueberry muffins. Justin we will all miss you. Thank you for making life easier. To Justin´s family you're in my thoughts and prayers
Gia Fenty
February 29, 2024
Justin was a wonderful human being. I enjoyed taking training classes with him at Oakhill, he made them so much fun. His sense of humor and laughter was contagious. He will be truly miss by many. My condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Judith Brown
February 29, 2024
Justin was such a wonderful and respectful sweet soul. It was such a joy to have Justin as a trainer over so many years. He was always a cheerful person to be around. My heart is sad but he is no longer in pain today. Training was always such fun with Justin especially when he gives us jokes about his daughter and her expensive pocketbook.
Sincere condolences to his family and to the Oakhill family.
Tricia Nolan
February 29, 2024
I can remember back in the day when we met at the Grand Lake Spa and working together at Oak Hill. Your laughter was contagious, your love for the individuals you worked with, and your compassion went beyond your years of life. You will be truly missed !
Renne Cinicola-Bragg
February 29, 2024
Justin you will be greatly missed!!! Enjoyed going to training just for the stories!!! My condolences to the family!
Judith Picard
February 29, 2024
I'm so sorry for your loss. I remember Justin from school and he was nice and charming person. Many blessing to your family and may you find comfort in your fond memories.
Stephanie Caouette
February 29, 2024
Justin was such a joy to be around and his smile was contagious! He is deeply missed. Love and prayers to his family.
Gina Gardella
February 29, 2024
To a man that taught compassion to many. He brightened a room with his smile and warming words of caring. He imprinted humanity to the core of giving of one´s self to others less fortunate. He lives on in all of us that knew him.
Karen Adamson
February 29, 2024
My sincere condolences to Justin's family and friends. Justin was the best, Training is never the same without him.
Lucy Drabek
February 29, 2024
Where does one begin to share a memory of Justin when he was so much a part of our lives.
I look around my yard and see him throughout. Justin had a passion for the outdoor, and gardening as I do. From flowers, bushes, to trees. He would thin out his garden and fill ours.
Stopping in almost every Saturday before the dump with his coffee and Reese `s peanut butter cup just to catch up.
Taking a road trip with me to see Bernie on the Appalachian trail, celebrating Damascus Days.
Or Camping and Hiking trip with the kids up North. Trying to set up camp with an infestation of mosquitoes biting us.
To his great sense of humor, bringing an old ancient scary looking statue for a Christmas Yankee swap. Only to have my 90year old Italian mom open it.
Spending time on Columbia Lake, swimming, relaxing, always commenting how lucky we all were.
I saw Justin celebrating life through his Love, Kindness, and Passion, a free spirit. Always willing to lend a hand, never having to be asked.
Yes, we are lucky to have had you in our lives. Be free, I know you will be.
Love & Light, Lucy
Jeannie Surratt
February 29, 2024
My deepest condolences to the family and friends. Justin was the best trainer, he always made training fun.
Joseph Sabolesky
February 29, 2024
Justin has always been a great asset to all the staff at the Bozrah House, doing many quality training sessions. He had the personality to get staff involved in many topics and conversations. We all love Justin and forever will hold him in our hearts filled with love!
Sincere Heartfelt Condolences. Love the Bozrah House staffing
Marie Gallahe
February 29, 2024
Justin you will be greatly missed! You had the most upbeat personality of anyone I know. Attending training classes was always a good time when you were around. Sending condolences to your family and Rest easy my friend!
Karen Vanderbilt
February 29, 2024
I am so sorry to hear this. Justin was one of the kindest persons I ever met. We enjoyed participating in his yearly dog shows at Rec Field. He was always happy and always had something nice to say. David and I will miss him too. Prayers for all his family
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