James Clarence Holmes

James Clarence Holmes

10-10-1942 – 3-24-2025

James Clarence Holmes, age 82, passed peacefully on March 24th, 2025, with his family at his side.

A man of charisma, wit and charm, he touched the lives of those he knew. He was a loved father and friend to many.

He was born on October 10th, 1942, to Clarence Nielo Holmes & Katherine Pietrini.

Jimmy spent his life surrounded by family, horses, cattle, and the land. He always did things his way, a true cowboy at heart. One of the last of his kind, he had a passion for buying and selling cattle and horses. After attending meat cutting school in Toledo, Ohio, he honed the skills that would later help him establish several businesses including Kinney Meats & Grocery and Great Scott Meats, building them from the ground up and raising his children around the businesses. Whether he was on horseback in his earlier days or at an auction, his presence was undeniable and always the first to lend a hand. Everyone was welcome around his table and most never left hungry!

Jimmy was known for his love of storytelling, often telling irresistible tales from his own life with a twinkle in his eye. Even when the tales were tall, listeners often realized they’d heard the whole truth.

He appreciated a good bump of whiskey, a good meal (usually a steak) and good company.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and an unforgettable spirit, with his family confident “they broke the mold” after he was born.

James was preceded in death by his best friend and brother, Ernest Holmes; and sister, Betty Bourque.

He is survived by his children: Shelly (Shane) Holmes, Jeff (Sarah) Holmes and Kerry (Randy) George; grandchildren: Kyle Obeidzinski, Nicole (Zach) Anderson, Jaylon, Justin and Josh Holmes, Bailey (Brittney) Webber & Hannah (JJ) Pingetzer; great-grandchildren: Niilo, KayElla and Naomi Obeidzinski, David and Tim Scherf, Justin Anderson and Tripp Webber.

He shared a special relationship with his nephews: Michael Holmes, Paul and David Bourque; and niece, Gina Johnson.

A celebration of Jimmy’s life will be held April 19th, 2025, at the Mtn. Iron Community Center with 11:00 a.m. visitation and memorial service at 12:00 p.m. Please bring your stories and help us celebrate Jimmy’s life.