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Donald Holmberg 04/08/2020

Donald William Holmberg, age 86, of New Richmond passed away peacefully at home on April 8, 2020 with family at his side. He was born October 18, 1933 in Range, Wisconsin and grew up in the Centuria area. Following high school, Don enlisted in the Army and served during the Korean War. After his military service was over, Don attended the University of Minnesota and graduated from UW-River Falls. He was hired by the New Richmond Public Schools as a math teacher and coach. Don married Shirley Parker on January 19, 1963. Later he went to work as a sales rep for Addison Wesley publishing company and finally he owned and operated his own sporting goods store in New Richmond, Willow River Sports. Don was active at First Lutheran Church and in his community. He served as a city council member and was active in youth sports. Don enjoyed bowling, playing bridge and later in life, golfing. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting with his dogs and fishing. At home, he spent much time reading and he liked to bake. Don was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lillian Holmberg; his sisters, Gloria Earhart and Joan Conley; and infant grandson, Benjamin. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Shirley; three children, Gretchen (John) Brunner; William Holmberg, and Hans (Sara) Holmberg; seven grandchildren, Emily, Anne, Lauren, Luke, Lewis, Joshua and Liliana; many dear nieces and nephews, and friends. A memorial service was held on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 11:00 am at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (728 S Knowles Ave.) in New Richmond.  Visitation will be from 10-11 am.   Don’s service was recorded and can be watched via a link found at the bottom of the page. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to First Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.


10 Comments

  • Alene Posted April 9, 2020 8:15 pm

    Shirley and Family,
    My deepest sympathy to all of you. I will keep all of you and Don in my prayers. Don was a special person and I know you all have good memories of him. May he rest in peace.

  • Jim Lazarus Posted April 10, 2020 12:50 pm

    Mr. Holmberg was my math teacher at NRHS. I remember him as an excellent teacher and a very nice person. I’m glad that I was able to speak with him at a reunion in 2013. My condolences go out to the Holmberg family.

  • Jewel & David Thompson Posted April 10, 2020 5:14 pm

    We also send our sincere sympathy to the family— so very sad for all of you- our prayers go to all,

  • Mike Kittel Posted April 11, 2020 12:07 am

    To Bill, and the rest of the family. My heartfelt best to you in this difficult time. Don taught my mom and I loved riding my bike up to his store as a kid. Many good thoughts and love to you all!

  • Jim Reppe Posted April 11, 2020 2:59 pm

    I had talked with Don a number of times over the decades I have known him and always enjoyed his easy-going manner. I especially remember him as being so helpful when he owned his sporting goods shop on the Northside. A good man who will be missed by many. A great guy!

  • Paul S Kittel Posted April 13, 2020 9:12 pm

    Sherley and family
    I will miss sharing the memories of the good old days of Town Baseball with Don. Bill it was so great of you to bring dad up to the Legion for coffee when he was unable to drive. He’ll be great missed by the members of Legion Post 80.

  • Mark Conley Posted April 17, 2020 12:18 am

    Dear Aunt Shirley, Gretchen, Bill, and Hans (and kids),

    Deb and I hope that the wonderful and multiple memories of Uncle Don will help you in the times when you struggle and will buoy your spirits all the time. My memories of Uncle Don when I was a child are so very fond. As I’ve said before he was the first to take me fishing…a trip in the canoe that I will never forget. I also loved his frequent trips to California during his time with Addison Wesley. Most of all I will always remember his smile and my mothers love for Uncle Don, frequently calling me Don throughout my life! Love and hugs to you all, Mark

  • Fred & Camila Posted April 17, 2020 2:23 am

    What a wonderful life Don had. Our thoughts are with you and your blessed family. Shirley, Gretchen, Bill and Hans, were many good memories and a certainty, Don will always be with us.

  • MaryBeth Lundy Rivard Posted April 18, 2020 2:29 pm

    Shirley & Family:
    So sorry to hear of Don’s passing. Being a shirt-tail relative to Don through my Mom was always dear to me. Don taught me Math and was an understanding mentor.
    He will truly be missed by all and many but his spirit will always remain.
    God Bless Your Family

  • Carla Beaurline Posted October 17, 2020 3:18 am

    Bill we are praying for you and your family! As you know we have followed your family’s journey with the passing of my Dad June 12th. Dad admired you so very much. He talked about your Dad’s passing during the Pandemic never realizing he would pass away 2 months later. What a beautiful tribute to your Father! Leaders and Hero’s like your Dad are rare. Know we will be watching online. Mom is too weak to get out otherwise we would be there in person. Let’s get together again soon as you catch your breath. God Bless you!!! The Beaurline Family, Carla, Sandy, Carl John (C.J.)

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