The Division has been notified of the passing of Regimental Number 13699, Charles Christian Holman by his son, Brad Holman. Charles passed away on June 9th., 2017 at Lindsay, Ontario.
Brad has generously provided an accounting of his dad’s ongoing interest in the RCMPVA which follows after which is included Charles’ obituary.
Brad,
“It is with great sadness that I must inform you of the passing of my father, ex/Cpl. Charles Holman. My Dad was a proud Life Member of the “O” Division Toronto Veterans Association. He passed away on June 9th in Lindsay, Ontario at the age of 97 following a 2 year battle with stroke. Dad served in “D” and “O” Divisions from 1940 to 1956. He was awarded the Order of St. John for his work with youth while stationed in Toronto. Dad was extremely proud of the Force and of the RCMP Veterans.
It’s been a tough go and I appreciate your message. Dad fought so hard since his stroke over 2 years ago. He never gave up until time caught up with him. My Father loved the Force, as I do, and was such a proud member and a dedicated Vet. When he got too old to attend the meetings he read the meeting minutes religiously. Once his stroke took his ability to speak and read, I read each letter and meeting minutes to him from cover to cover. Even without an ability to communicate, he reacted with a smile when I read to him and told him stories from my career. My Dad was responsible for influencing 3 people from our family to become members: two of his nephews (Ken and Barry Walters) and myself.
Attached is one of my favourite photos of Dad. It was taken when he was the MC for the Musical Ride performance in Lindsay, Ontario; obviously a few years ago..
My warmest regards to you and Vets and thank you sincerely for reaching out.”
Charles’ Obituary,
“Obituary for Charles Christian Holman
Passed peacefully at Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay, Ontario on June 9, 2017 at the age of 97. Predeceased by his parents Charles and Mary Jenn, by his sister Mary, and his grandson Kevin. Charles is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Margaret Elizabeth Holman (née Redgate).
Charles will be missed by his children Lynne (Kevin), Deb, and Brad (Josè). He will be remembered by his grandchildren Dawn (Ken), Jenny (Mark), Tiffany (Aaron), Scott (Ashley), Cheryl (Phil), Kristen (Ron), and Tammy (Curtis). Charles always showed his love for his 15 great grandchildren. Charles was a Royal Canadian Mounted Police Officer, who then became in charge of public relations for Allstate insurance on a national scale. He was an avid blood donor giving over 1,000 pints of blood.
One of Charles’ proudest accomplishments was receiving the Order of St. John for working with under privileged youth in Toronto. He was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge. Charles had a passion for singing being part of multiple groups and choirs; he last preformed a solo in church at the age of 94. Arrangements have been entrusted to THE HENDREN FUNERAL HOMES, MONK CHAPEL.
As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.”
An additional photo was located that was taken during the Police Games in Bowmanville in 1955 and shows Cpl. Holman presenting the RCMP Trophy for the highest aggregate athlete to the winner.
