Gary Holmes

Gary F. Holmes, 67, of Wexford, PA, passed away on December 2, 2013 after a courageous and stoic battle with cancer with his beloved wife, Patti Hollern Holmes holding his hand. Preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Isabelle Holmes, his in-laws, John T. and Margaret Hollern, and his brother-in-law, Patrick Martin. He is survived by his brother and fishing buddy, Richard Holmes, and sisters-in-law, Rosemary (Jerry) Hamilton, Rita Martin, Nancy (Joe) Colella, and Theresa (John) Kuhn, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and cousins. With his quiet and unassuming personality, Gary never sought recognition for his good works or accomplishments, which included graduating magna cum laude (Robert Morris University) and receiving a "Best of Breed" award from the Hospital Council of Western PA. He was a U.S. Army veteran and a long-time Armstrong County YMCA board member. Gary enjoyed simple pleasures such as fishing trips with Dick and watching sports, especially harness racing. He enjoyed traveling to such sites as: Yosemite, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, Mt Rushmore, Mt. St. Helen, Mt. Rainier, Smoky Mountains, along with trips to the New England area, and the Atlantic beaches. He cherished his rescued cats, Pumpkin, Tiger, Morrie, Popcorn, and Rascal. He supported many animal-focused organizations. A hospital administrator, Gary could charm people with his quick wit, mischievous smile, twinkling eyes and a playful wink. Visitation Wednesday December 4, 2013 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at GRAUMLICH FUNERAL HOME, 1351 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43207, where service will be held Thursday at 10:30 a.m., Rev. Edward M. Wood officiating. A luncheon will follow interment at St. Joseph Cemetery, Lockbourne, OH. Donations can be made to: Orphans of the Storm, Inc. PO Box 838, Kittanning, PA 16201,http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/pa37.html; Animal Protectors of Allegheny Valley, 533 Linden Avenue, New Kensington, PA 15068, http://animalprotectors.net/; or Light of Life Rescue Mission, P.O. Box 6823, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, http://www.lightoflife.org/#sthash.Wb5YPx1D.dpuf. To sign and view Gary's online book of memories please visit www.graumlichfuneralhome.com.