Robert Holmes

Robert Morris Holmes, 93, of Knippa, TX, passed away March 15, 2022, in Uvalde, TX.  He was born in Idabel, Oklahoma on September 28, 1928, to George and Effie Jane Holmes.

Robert’s life was full of adventure from the time he was a child.  During high school summers he worked on a ranch in Wyoming.  This is where he became a true cowboy.  It is still a mystery as to how he traveled from Oklahoma to Wyoming each summer, but some suspect trains were involved.

After graduating from Idabel High School in 1947, Robert enlisted and joined the United States Air Force.  In 1951 he finished top of his class at Chanute Air Force Base as an aircraft jet engine mechanic.  Robert excelled in this program – he earned the highest grade in his class, was recognized for his superior application and ability, and was formally presented with a certificate of achievement.  1951 was a special year for Robert.  Not only did he excel in the USAF, he also married Carol Crank on January 30th in DeQueen, Arkansas.  They started their family and moved all over the country.  Robert was stationed in Florida, Alabama, California, and Texas.

His plan to stay in the military halted when his father became ill.  In 1960, he was Honorably Discharged with the rank of Technical Sergeant.   Robert returned to Idabel to support his family.  He soon took over his father’s position at The Brown Miller Company.  Robert was successful in all his endeavors.  His work ethic was strong, and he took a firm stance in his beliefs which brought him great respect.  After 18 years as Field Manager for The Brown Miller Company managing cucumber fielding operations in Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas, Robert and Carol started their greatest adventure.  In 1978 they moved to Knippa, TX and started their own pickle shed, Holmes & Holmes Company.  They built a business together that served them well and involved their children and grandkids.  If Robert wasn’t in a pickle field, he was on a cutting horse in the arena.  At one point his herd consisted of close to 100 horses.  This was his passion and he loved sharing it with his grandkids and friends.

Robert is survived by daughter, Linda Ede and husband, Frank of Knippa, TX; son, retired Lieutenant Colonel Steve Holmes of Parkville, Missouri; son Randy Holmes and wife, Judy, of Uvalde, TX; sister Bettye Bromley and husband, Jack, of Zanesville, Ohio; six grandchildren, Christy Allan and husband Chris; Paul Ede and wife Nan; Matthew Ede; Hayden Holmes and wife Amanda; Harper Holmes and Quint Murr; six great grandchildren, Madelyn Allan, Abygail Allan, Bruce Ede, Brady Ede, Easton Murr and Holden Holmes.  There are numerous nieces and nephews and many special friends Robert leaves behind.

He was predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Carol Holmes; sister Flora Ufner and husband Don; sister Marilyn Brooker and husband Don; brother George Holmes; brother Leonard Holmes and his baby brother whom he never had a chance to meet.

A service will be held at Rushing-Estes Knowles on March 22, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. with interment to follow in the Knippa Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Knippa Cemetery or the charity of your choice.