Alan J. Holden's Obituary
Alan J. Holden, 69 yrs., of Reeds Spring, MO, and Columbia, IL, passed away on August 19, 2016, at Reeds Spring, MO. He was born in Columbia, IL, the son of the late Robert, Sr., and Florence, nee Schumacher, Holden. Al was a lifelong resident of Columbia where he attended Columbia High School. After high school Al joined the United States Marine Corp reaching the rank of Sergeant (E-5) before he was honorably discharged in 1969. After his service to our country he returned home to Columbia where he was an owner and partner of several different local businesses for many years. In 2014, Al retired from the City of Columbia having served as Building and Zoning Inspector for over 20 years. Al was a hard worker and loyal civil servant his entire life and there was no bigger display of those qualities than during his almost 40 years of service to the Columbia Volunteer Fire Department, including over 15 years as Columbia Fire Chief. He was also a member of the Columbia Rural Fire Department and served in numerous leadership positions in both departments. He was proud to be a member of CVFD, and he deeply cherished his brethren with whom he served. Al was a founding member of the Columbia Sister Cities partnership with Gedern, Germany, and helped to ensure our cities lasting partnership with the city of Gedern and their fire department. Al was also an active member of American Legion Post 581, Columbia Turners, and many different trade and fire organizations. Al was a veteran, fireman, volunteer, civil servant, business owner, friend, and loving father. He will be missed dearly by all. Visitation Tuesday, August 23, 2016, 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Lawlor Funeral Home, and Wednesday, August 24, 9:00 am - 10:00 am St. Paul United Church of Christ, Columbia, IL ServicesWednesday, August 24, 2016, 10:00 am, St. Paul United Church of Christ, 127 N. St. Paul Columbia, IL Pastor Bob Goddard, officiating Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery St. Louis, MO Memorial Contribution Suggestions As an expression of sympathy, the family prefers memorial contributions to: The Robert F. Holden, Jr., Memorial Scholarship Fund. SurvivorsDaughter, Crista Sue (Joseph) Maul of Dallas, TX Step- Children, Cassie Hyde and Michael Frierdich, Jr. Cousins, other relatives and friends Also Preceded In Death BySon, Keith Holden Brother, Robert F. Holden, Jr.
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