Melvin Duane Holmes

Melvin Duane Holmes, 84, died peacefully at home on February 10, 2016 in Topeka, Kansas.

He leaves his wife of 55 years, Sharon (Sloan) Holmes; his son Danny Holmes and his wife Wanda; his son Kevin Holmes and his wife Rachel; his daughter Annette Holderrieth and her husband Drew; his daughter Sherry Holmes; his sister Georgie Foster and her husband Nels; his sister LaVon Fender; his sister-in-law Bonnie Pinick; his brothers-in-law David Tabor; Carl Sloan; Darreld Sloan and his wife Donna; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Melvin was born January 21, 1932 to Mick and Gertrude Holmes of Topeka.

He drove a truck for Victory Sand and worked at Petros Surgical Supply. While in trade school he met his wife, Sharon Lea Sloan. He later got a job working for Santa Fe where he would stay for 30 years.

He was a Korean War veteran who served in the United States Air Force as an airplane mechanic.

Melvin was a gifted musician who played guitar and piano in several local bands. He also enjoyed gardening and making bird houses in his spare time. He was a member of Restoration House ministries and loved his church family.

No service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Midland Hospice.

From his son Danny:

Just a few words about the man I looked up to as a hero when I was little. I'm sorry for the years that we butted heads (probably because we were a little too much alike). I am thankful for everything you taught me, how you took care of me and always wanted the best for me. I hope you know just how much you mean to me. I love you so much! When we meet in the next life I hope we can spend eternity together (no pain). Remember your code so I can find you: L98heart. Love you Daddy

A poem by his daughter-in-law Wanda Holmes:

Look at me now. I feel what my heart wants. It's wanting to let go but I have been holding on longer to talk to the Lord. I get lost and found at the same time. When they finally put me down all I'll do is look up. I get lost in you like I am not gone. All I can do is look down where I once was and I see life and color and movement. Then I see you. Look at me now. I'm not gone. I'm home.