Robert J. Holmes

Robert James Holmes, age 88, of Storm Lake, Iowa died December 22, 2017 at the Buena Vista Regional Medical Center in Storm Lake. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Alta. Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery in Alta with full military rites by the Alta VFW Post #6172. Visitation will take place Tuesday, December 26, 2017 from 5-8:00 p.m. at the Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Alta. The Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Alta is in charge of the arrangements. Robert James Holmes was born August 3, 1929 in Alta, Iowa the son of Alexander “Eck” and Anna Marie Catherine (Snell-Nelson) Holmes. As an infant, Robert was baptized and later confirmed at the United Methodist Church in Alta where he remained a lifelong member. Growing up, Robert attended school in Alta where he graduated from Alta High School in 1948. While attending high school he enjoyed participating in football and track. In 1951, Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force where he proudly served his country until he was honorably discharged in 1955. On September 6, 1954, Robert was united in marriage to Helen Caughey in California. Together, they were blessed with two children: Wesley Allen and Robert James Jr. Robert was a member of the Truesdale Farmers Club. He also was a past senior vice commander with the Alta VFW Post #6172. Currently, Robert was serving as the commander of the Alta American Legion #498. Robert served on several church boards at the United Methodist Church in Alta and was currently a trustee board member. Robert loved being outdoors farming. Farming truly was a passion he had, and he enjoyed helping his boys. Robert was a very giving person and often times thanked people by providing them with frozen meat. He loved visiting with family and friends and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren during the holidays. He was known as “GG Bob” which stood for great grandpa Bob. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Those left to cherish his memory include his children: Wesley (Linda) Holmes of Alta, Iowa; Robert James “Jim” (Sue) Holmes of Storm Lake, Iowa; grandchildren: Sarah (Devon) Sadler; Ben (Lacey) Holmes; Emily (Austin) Westrum; Matt (friend, Allie) Holmes; Laura (Will) DeKok; Amy Harrison; Devin Steele; great grandchildren: Charlie Robert, Lorelai and Sawyer Sadler; Mackenzie and new baby Holmes; Levi, Connor and Oliver Westrum; Emma McDonald; Dominic, Isaac, Jaxon and Brooklyn Steele; sister-in-law, Bonnie Moize of Storm Lake, Iowa; extended family and friends. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Helen Holmes; brothers: Dyle, Lyman, William; sisters: Geneva Nancarrow and Marjorie Hart.

Robert J. Holmes

August 3, 1929 - December 22, 2017