Ken (Kenny to his buddies) was born August 9, 1913 in Charlotte, Michigan, the 3rd oldest of 8 children, to John and Zora Holmes. He passed away February 8, 2010 in California. He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1932, attended Lansing Business College, moved permanently to Lansing upon completion, and ultimately worked as an accountant for General Motors for over 30 years.

Ken was a Michigan man to the core. He loved its beaches and farmland, its forests and lakes. And he shared it all with his wife and five children throughout a lifetime of love, laughter and unconditional devotion.

An avid gardener, he was known for his superb raspberries and sweet tomatoes - along with his generosity for sharing the fruits of his labor with his neighbors. He also cultivated beautiful roses, which gave Ruth, his wife of almost 60 years, great joy.

Bowling was a passion, swimming a joy, golf a challenge, the Elks a fun and worthy social activity, and the American Red Cross a proud, volunteer commitment for 25 years.

At the wise, old age of 96, his body failed, but his inimitable spirit and sharp mind never faltered. He was a perfect father, brother and friend to the end. His friendly smile, dry sense of humor, and a warmth that emanated from deep within will long be remembered by those of us near and dear.

Ken is survived by his five children: Mary Jo Holmes (Sister of Mercy) of Benton Harbor, MI; John Holmes (Carol) of Cleveland, TN; Maureen Holmes-Brown (Ron) of Reseda, CA; Jeffrey Holmes of Reseda, CA; and David Holmes of Northridge, CA; as well as two sisters: Irene Hart of Fullerton, CA and Gladys Coats of Charlotte, MI; and his four grandchildren and his six great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 20, 2010, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel, 325 W. Washtenaw, followed by a luncheon at Troppo's Restaurant. The family will greet guests beginning at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you send a tax-deductible donation to New Horizons, the association for the developmentally-challenged, that David attends: 15725 Parthenia St., North Hills, CA 91343-4999, attn.: Development Department.