Hollis R. Holden

Hollis R. Holden, age 92 and long-time resident of Concord, passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2014 following a brief illness. He was the loving and devoted husband of Caroline V. (Petersen) Holden.

Hollis was born in Waltham on December 31, 1921, the son of the late Wilfred and Jennie B. (Redden) Holden, and grew up in Belmont where he graduated from Belmont High School

In 1944, Hollis enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country during WWII. His duties overseas included machining and repairing heavy equipment and automotive parts for his fellow soldiers. He operated drill presses, engine lathes, shapers, milling and brake drum refinishing machines and grinders. He served with the 4th and 11th Armored Division in the European Theater of Operations.

Upon his return home, he married and settled in Concord. Hollis was a devoted husband and family man, all while he owned and operated a successful machine shop located in West Concord. Known for his joyful heart and generosity, Hollis was an active and well-respected member of the community, always ready to help when called upon, including as a Scout Leader in West Concord. Hollis was also a long-time and faithful member of the Corinthian Lodge A.F. & A.M. in Concord.

Hollis enjoyed dancing, gardening, playing his keyboard and harmonica, repairing machines and items for friends and family, but he especially cherished spending quiet time with his beloved wife, Caroline. He was a faithful member of the West Concord Union Church where he sang in the choir for over 50 years.

Along with his wife, he is survived by his children and their spouses, Blue Sky Holden and his wife, Joyus Fox-Sky of Colrain, Nancy Holden-Avard and her husband, Fred Avard of South Hadley and his granddaughter, Rebekah Holden-Avard also of South Hadley.

Family and friends gathered to honor and remember Hollis on Wednesday, August 6th, at the West Concord Union Church. Burial with U.S. Army Military Honors followed in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Concord.

Concord's town flag will fly at half-staff on Wednesday, August 6th in honor of Mr. Holden's service to his country in the United States Army during WWII.

Donations in his name may be made to:
West Concord Union Church - Music Fund
1317 Main Street
Concord, MA 01742

Arrangements under the care of Glenn D. Burlamachi, CONCORD FUNERAL HOME, A Life Celebration® Home, Concord. To share a memory or offer a condolence visit: www.concordfuneral.com