We Remember
HOLMES, Walter Fredrick “Jerry”
August 24, 1926 — October 14, 2024
It’s with great sadness and profound love that we announce the loss of Walter Fredrick “Jerry” Holmes, who passed away on October 14, 2024, in Courtenay, British Columbia, at the age of 98.
Jerry now goes to join those who passed before him, including his beloved wife, Penny, and brother, Bud.
Left to hold him close in their memories are his children, Allyson Laraine “Larrie” (Bernie) Betke, Maureen Patricia (Jeff) Wylie, and Jeffrey Wayne (Joyce) Holmes; 8 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. Also mourning his loss is his sister-in-law, Shirley Holman, two nephews and a niece.
Jerry was a man of adventure. As a young salesman he held his pilot’s license, and throughout his life he travelled all over the world, yet was equally content as an armchair enthusiast when at home, watching his favourite “critter” and sport shows on TV. He lived life to the fullest, enjoying golfing, downhill skiing, water-skiing, as well as fishing and spending time on the various boats he owned with pride over the years. Known for his social nature, Jerry had a splendid sense of humour, and always had a smile and kind word for everyone he met. This gregarious personality served him well in his career at Finning Ltd. He was a salesman-extraordinaire, retiring as an executive vice-president after 43 years of service. In midlife, Jerry took up square dancing with his wife, Penny, an activity they had great fun participating in together. He was a voracious reader, and found pleasure in the written word, especially in his later years.
Jerry held his family dear to his heart and was always there to support anyone in their time of need. He was much loved and respected by his children and grandchildren, and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Memorial Service will be held in May 2025.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.
On behalf of our Finning Retirees Association, we would like to express our deepest Sympathy to everyone in Jerry’s family.