BOURBON – Gene A. Holdemen, 71, Plymouth, passed away at 5:15 p.m. Nov. 6, 2013, in Bremen Health Care Center with his family at his side. He was born Jan. 15, 1942, in Bremen, to Melvin and Esther Sarber Holdeman, who preceded him in death. On June 16, 1962, he married Judy Ann Early, who died April 20, 1991. He has been a lifelong resident of the area. He was known by many golfers who played at Sprig-O-Mint Golf Course. He was the groundskeeper and always had a smile for those who were privileged to hit a ball in his direction. He had worked at Dodge Manufacturing, Mishawaka, and had owned the Bremen Bowling Lanes for several years. In his spare time he loved farming, being outside, drag racing and all the activities of his grandkids and their sports events. Anything that involved family and friends, you would fine Gene there. “His smile was beautiful” and will be greatly missed by all. Surviving are a daughter, Gina (and spouse Marty) Cannoot, Lakeville; a son, Todd Holdeman, Plymouth; and his grandchildren: Ashley Holdeman, James Rose, Craig (and spouse Amber) Cassel and Chase Cassel (and fiance Lenae Bennett); and great-grandchildren: Kennedy and Raigen Cassel. He was further blessed with his sisters, Ruth Ann (and spouse Allen) Graber, and Carol (and spouse John) Wagoner, all of North Webster; and a brother, Fred (and spouse Linda) Holdeman, Lakeville. He was preceded in death by a son, Kevin, who died Sept. 9, 2001; a great-granddaughter, Jailyn; and two brothers, Ralph and Charles. A celebration of Gene’s life will be at 6 p.m. Nov. 15 at Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, 115 S. Main St., Bourbon, IN 46504, with Pastor Tom Padberg, Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, officiating. Calling is from 2 to 6 p.m. Nov. 15 at the funeral home. ***** Memorials to Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, 112 S. Center St., Plymouth, IN 46563. Condolences may be sent via deatonclemensfh.com
