Thomas E. Holds

Thomas Eugene Holds, age 80 of Battle Creek, passed away Tuesday, March 14, 2023. He was born November 19, 1942 in Battle Creek, Michigan, the son of John Calvin and Genevieve Sarah (Smith) Holds. Tom was a 1960 graduate of Battle Creek Central and was a lifelong Bearcat. He was incredibly proud of his naval service, where he served aboard the fleet oiler USS Sabine, and helped enforce the blockade during the outbreak of the Cuban Missile Crisis. He went to work for Post Cereals after his honorable discharge and retired from there with 33 years of service.  He married the former Sandra McCurdy on April 10, 1965; though that ended in divorce they remained lifelong friends. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and travelling to his ship's reunions. He formerly served as a docent at Binder Park Zoo, was a Master Gardener, a member of the Post 25 year club, and was a member of Bedford Lodge 207 F.& A.M. Tom was a Friend Of Bill's since 1991 and mentored many during that time. Tom is survived by a daughter, Diane (Jeff) Bammer, son James (Debra) Holds, a brother Capt. James H. Holds, USN, ret., seven grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Sheri Holds-White, brother John Holds, and longtime companion Jan Rasmussen.  Memorial service scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 24, 2023 at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.  Private interment will take place at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Alano Club of Battle Creek.  Memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org