Willard Joseph Isadore Holden

It is with great sadness  we acknowledge the passing of a very special man, ‘Willard’ Joseph I. Holden. He passed in his 90th year on January 4th, 2025, at Four Counties Hospital in Newbury, Ontario. Willard was born in Nepean, Ontario on December 5th, 1935 to William Richard Holden and Florence Marguerite Chaput. He met Penny Fraser in Sarnia, and the pair had four children (Bill, Mike, Richard, and Shari).

Willard truly knew that it was more blessed to give than to receive. His generosity knew no bounds, and he always ensured that his friends and family were taken care of.

As a successful mechanic, Willard owned multiple garages and worked tirelessly until he was 80. He often shared his work with his son, Mike, and also created masterpieces for each of his children. Throughout his life, Willard was an exceptional provider for his family. Willard’s true passion was playing his collection of instruments at “jam” sessions with friends and his brother, Bill. In his early years, Willard had a band that often played at the Grand Hotel in Cambridge. He was also an avid fisherman and hunter.

Willard had a unique way of lighting up the room. Known for his boundless charisma, Willard had a natural gift for making connections and telling jokes. He thrived socially, able to effortlessly make friends from strangers, leaving a lasting impression on all who were lucky enough to meet him.

He was a true warrior even up to his final moments of life, showcasing his strength and determination.  

He is survived by Penny; children, Bill (Patti), Mike (Julie), and Shari (Greg); grandchildren, Bill jr., Michael (Nikki), Aleesha, Kyle, Jeremy, Allan, Stephanie (Cam), Josh, Samantha (Devon), and Jason; great grandchildren, Hailey, Makayla, Jaxson, Liam, Brooklyn, Sutton, Starla, Willow, and Jasper, and many nieces and nephews.

Willard is preceded in death by his parents, William Holden and Florence Chaput; siblings, Bill Holden and Bernice Poulin; child, Richard Holden; grandchild, Jessica Holden.

Willard will be honoured in a celebration of life at the Preston Legion, 334 Westminster Dr. N, Cambridge, ON, February 8th from 1-4pm.

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