Richard Harold Holder, 74, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away on June 4, 2024 at LMH Health.
Richard was born on June 29, 1949, in Coffeyville, Kansas. He was the son of George & Betty (Merchant) Holder. He later moved to Lawrence, Kansas when his Father’s job at Farmland Coop
Industries was transferred from Coffeyville to Lawrence.
Richard was a simple man and lived a simple life. He enjoyed bird hunting in his younger years, a good day of fishing, taking a Sunday drive to explore the country side, of course after stopping by Dairy Queen to pick up ice cream for the road, tending to his cattle on the family farm, hunting for morel mushrooms, watching his kids and Grandkids grow up and just relaxing on the couch watching his favorite westerns. Richard was always fond of old cars, particularly the 1957 Chevy Belair 2 door hard top. Richard always enjoyed a good home cooked meal and getting together with family. He was famous for making his homemade baked beans at Thanksgiving. They were referred to as, “Holder’s Beans.”
Richard graduated from Lawrence High School in 1968. After high school he served in the United States Navy, where he was on the ship U.S.S. Gurke, during the Vietnam War. It was after his honorable discharge from the Navy, that he met his future wife, Judy (Hattabaugh) Holder. They were married on September 27, 1971. Richard and Judy were blessed with 4 children, Jennifer, Melissa, Jim and Ashley.
Richard was always a hard worker and great provider for his family. He worked for Bricklayers Union Local number 18, where he was a superintendent for many years. In 1989, Richard started his own business, H&H Waterproofing & Restoration, which was successful for 31 years. Richard retired in 2020.
Richard is survived by his wife, Judy (Hattabaugh) Holder, of the home. Daughter, Jennifer Edwards (David), of Lawrence, KS. Daughter, Melissa Saline (Clint), of Tecumseh, KS. Son, James Holder, of Lawrence, KS. Six Grandchildren, Joshua, Nick, Weston, Wyatt, Walker and Sophia. Richard is also survived by two brothers, Randy and Matt and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Richard is predeceased by his parents, George and Betty (Merchant) Holder, Brother, Chris Holder, Sister, Carla Holder, Daughter, Ashley Holder and Grandson, Bradley.
Graveside services for Richard will be Monday, June 17th at 11am, at Clinton Cemetery.
Donations may be made to St. Jude’s or Douglas County Humane Society, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260 Lawrence, Kansas 66044.
Fair winds and following seas sailor. “Boatswain… Standby to pipe the side… Shipmate’s going Ashore⦔ Thank you Richard for your service to this nation. U.S. Navy, Vietnam Era.
Judy, and family I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray the Lord will give you Peace and Comfort at this time. ππππ
For short while, Richard and Judy ran a little tavern in Reno, Kansas located between Lawrence and Tonganoxie on highway 24/40. If memory serves, he called it “Little Richards”. My Band used to play music on weekends at his and Judy’s bar. I have a lot of great memories from that time. Richard and Judy were always so gracious and accommodating to everyone. It was a privilege to have known Richard. Condolences to all the family members for the loss of such a great human being.
As I remember back when Richard first started dating Judy. I remember Richard had a 69 or 70 Road runner. Richard and Judy spent a lot of time with RD and Joyce Ann. I remember them coming on going on weekends at Judy’s house always full of family and Otis’ and Alma’s spent a many of weekends there. They were more family then my own. I am so sorry Judy.
May Richard Rest In Peace. Sincere condolunces to his family, from a fellow LHS ’68 classmate and veteran.
I have known Richard since Lawrence High School, my thoughts and prayers are with you and all family members
I remember Richard well from high school, sorry for your loss, prayers for the family.
John and I are so sorry for your loss. John was just with him a few weeks ago. Our deepest sympathies.