|
John Robert Holdson, 81, a long-time resident of Albuquerque, died Saturday, March 26, 2005. He was preceded in death by his parents, C. Walter and Alice Holdson; brother, David Holdson; sister, Ruth Ann Waller; and daughter, Karen Harwell. He is survived by Sarah Ruth Moorhead and husband, Robert of Fresno, CA and Martha Sue Grisham and husband, Mark of Springfield, MO; grandchildren, Michele Logan, Neil and Katelyn Grisham, Spencer Moorhead; six great-grandchildren; nieces, Ann M. Dumas, Deborah Wirth-Schneider, Janet Morris; nephews, Steve and John Waller; cousins, Ellen Bogart, Margaret Hoskins, Beth and Mary Jane Greenlee; former wife, Harriett Bolding; sister, Janet Wirth; and longtime companion, Antonia Bustamante. John was born in West Springfield, PA on February 7, 1924 and graduated from Rowe High School in East Conneaut, OH. He received his B.S. and M.A. Degrees in horticulture from Ohio State University. He was a Master Sergeant in the Army Air Corps in World War II. John loved to fly and obtained his private pilot license. John was employed as a horticulturist caring for the grounds at the U.S. Naval Ordinance Station in China Lake, CA. In 1952, he joined Janet and Bob Wirth to form Rio Valley Greenhouses in Albuquerque. In addition to growing excellent stock, John will be remembered for his generous sharing of knowledge regarding gardening and for his wit and friendliness. For the past four years, John received wonderful care at the Cottages of Albuquerque where he loved the staff and they loved him. He will be missed. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be announced at a later date. He will be interred at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. If desired, donations may be made to the Cottages of Albuquerque at 3920 Juan Tabo NE, 87111 or to the Alzheimer's Association New Mexico Chapter, 9500 Montgomery Blvd. NE, 87111. French Mortuary 1111 University Blvd. NE 843-6333
|
