Douglas Craig Holdefer

Douglas Holdefer, 76, of Pleasant Hill, passed away peacefully on March 15th, 2024, surrounded by family.

Doug was born on June 1st, 1947 to Howard and Helen Holdefer. In Doug’s youth, his family lived in Colfax, Newton, and Kellogg, Iowa.

Doug attended Colfax High School, where he met his high school sweetheart Barbara; the two dated throughout high school. After graduating in 1965, Doug began working for HyVee Food Stores. He joined the United States Coast Guard in October of 1966; he completed 9 months of commissary school in Connecticut. Doug and Barb married later that year in December of 1966, and made their first home together at his station in Hawaii. They were later restationed to Connecticut, where they started their family.

After serving in the Coast Guard, Doug and Barb moved back to Iowa where he continued his career with Hy Vee. He retired as a Meat Manager after 40 years of service with the company.

During their 57 years of marriage, Doug and Barb welcomed their three children: Brenda, Stacy, and Craig, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Doug loved his time with his family, and especially enjoyed his grandchildren and all the time he spent with them. Over the years, he enjoyed many hobbies – including fishing, hunting, and his Corvette that he meticulously maintained. One of Doug’s favorite activities was peaceful early morning drives down gravel roads throughout the Iowa countryside.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Holdefer Sr and Helen Holdefer, and his brother Ronald Holdefer.

He is survived by his wife Barbara, his daughters, Brenda (Stacey) Rice and Stacy Holdefer, and son Craig Holdefer. His grandchildren: Cody (Aly) Breeden, Kip Breeden, Cole Breeden, Kaitlyn Breeden, AJ Holdefer, and Stevie Holdefer. His great-grandchildren: Brantley Breeden, Avery Culp, Noah Breeden, and Ralyn Breeden. His brothers Howard Holdefer, Jr. and Michael Holdefer, and sister Georgia Pierce.

A private viewing for Doug’s immediate family was held. A Celebration of Life Service for family and friends will be at McKeever Cemetery in Colfax, Iowa on Doug’s birthday, June 1st at 11:00am with luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, Barb Holdefer (payable) is collecting donations which will be gifted to Child Serve Continued Care Unit in honor of their grandson Cole, who is a resident

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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