Obituary of Bill Holmes

William “Bill” Allen Holmes

May 26, 1965 – February, 24 2025

William “Bill” Allen Holmes, 59, of West Branch, passed away on February 24th, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on May 26, 1965, in Iowa City, Bill was raised in West Branch, Iowa, by his parents, James and Dorothy (Bolhuis) Holmes, alongside his two brothers and three sisters. Baptized and a member of Bethany Lutheran Church. He graduated from West Branch High School in 1983.

Bill had many passions in life. As a dedicated bowler, he played in the Super League at Colonial Lanes as part of the United States Bowling Congress (USBC). He was a proud member of the Classy Chassy Cruisers Car Club, frequently attending classic car shows. He found joy in fishing—always catch and release from his kayak—and spent many summers camping with his wife Kathy and their dogs. Bill was a talented woodworker, crafting cherished gifts in his basement workshop. He also enjoyed country music, NASCAR, cheering on the ‘Skins, riding motorcycle, and the simple satisfaction of mowing his lawn.

On January 4th, 2020, Bill married Kathy in West Branch, Iowa, marking a beautiful chapter in their lives. Together, they recently celebrated 13 wonderful years as a couple. With unwavering love and devotion, they blended their families, raising seven children, creating a home filled with warmth and cherished memories.

Above all, Bill’s greatest joy was watching his daughter Rena in all of her activities—whether it was gymnastics or track, he was always there, cheering her on.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Holmes; his children, Rena Holmes, Sonja (Jacob) Neilson, Wade Holmes, and Austin Holmes; his stepchildren, Mackenzie Miller, Madison (Mason) Jacobs, and Mason Miller; and his granddaughter, Sophie Neilson. He is also survived by his siblings, Becky (Gary) Pinckert, Mark (Jody) Holmes, Brian (Terri) Holmes, and Sandi (Chris) Caskey; brother-in-law John Rubio; and numerous loved nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and sister, Valinda Rubio.

     In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been created to support Rena Holmes’ college education. 

     Contributions can be made via Venmo to @BillHolmesMemorial 

     or sent to: Bill Holmes Memorial Fund, ℅ Henderson-Barker Funeral Home, PO Box 206, West Branch, Iowa 52358.

Bill was a man of few words, yet he meant the world to so many. He was a husband, a dad, a brother, a stepdad, an adoptive parent, an uncle, a best friend, a father-in-law, a brother-in-law, and son-in-law. He was a fisherman, a handyman, and a quiet soul. Bill is so much to so many.

Please honor Bill’s memory whenever you enjoy a sweet treat, a piece of beef jerky, a Diet Mtn Dew, or a Busch Light.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 8th, from 1 PM to 4 PM at Colonial Lanes—a place that brought Bill great joy and where he spent countless hours. In true Bill fashion, we will gather to honor his memory in the way he loved most—bowling and sharing stories together.

With love and strength,

     The Holmes Family

     Celebration of Life

     Saturday, March 8th | 1-4 PM 

     Colonial Lanes Bowling Alley

     2253 Old Hwy 218 S, Iowa City, IA 52246