Theodore Holt

A strong, determined, and steadfast man, Theodore “Ted” Holt, Jr. was an extraordinary man to know and love. He was never one to worry about the little things, rather, he was content in whatever life brought whether trial or triumph. Ted was a hardworking man who didn’t shy away from giving everything his best. A devoted family man, there was nothing he cherished more than spending times with his friends and loved ones. Deeply treasured, Ted will be forever missed.

Life in America during the 1930s was anything but easy. The dark days of the Great Depression covered our nation like a wet blanket throughout the entire decade and beyond. Jobs were scarce, the unemployment rate soared, and cities, communities, and families often came together to weather the storm in whatever way they could. Despite the trials around them, Theodore and Bernice Holt were able to shift their focus to an exciting time in their lives as they announced the birth of the baby boy they named Theodore H. on April 13, 1936, in Battle Creek, Michigan. The oldest of four children, he was joined in his family by his younger siblings, Marilyn, Tom, and Don. Raised in the family home in Fulton, Michigan, Ted began farming at a very young age. He attended school through local schools in both Vicksburg and Athens.

When he became a young man, Ted was eager for all that life had in store. He was married for a period of time, and through that marriage he was blessed with the births of two children, Marie and Bud. A hardworking man, Ted worked as a farmer, and he also worked at GW Pizza in Mendon during the 1960s and 1970s. From there he began working at Essex Wire in Three Rivers during the 1970s, but when he lost his eyesight he was no longer able to work.

As his family and friends can attest, Ted loved being at home more than anyplace else. His family was his greatest treasure, and he was so proud of his children and granddaughter. Tragedy struck in Ted’s family when his precious granddaughter, Megan, died in 2009. He was a good cook, and he remained skilled in the kitchen even after he lost his eyesight.

All who knew Ted would agree that he was truly one of a kind. He was humorous and full of BS with the special skill of coming up with the perfect nickname for people. Ted could be strong willed at times and wasn’t afraid to speak his mind when he felt passionately about something. A true farmer through and through, he enjoyed listening to cattle auctions on the radio and the television. Ted was even able to tell if they had new calves based on the sounds of the cattle. A nature lover, he also enjoyed hearing the birds.

With a journey that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Ted Holt, Jr. lived a life of purpose. He was hardworking for as long as he was able, and his work ethic was truly an inspiration. Ted also knew how to have fun and was quick to give someone a hard time in the name of fun. He will never be forgotten.

Theodore H. Holt, Jr, of Fulton passed on Wednesday, June 21, 2017. Ted is survived by his two children: Marie (Douglas) Kline, of Three Rivers; Bud (Dawn) Holt, of Fulton; sister: Marilyn (David) Baird, of Fulton; and brother: Tom Holt, of Athens. Ted was preceded in death by his granddaughter: Megan Holt and one brother: Don Holt. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. at Life Story Funeral Home, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg (269-649-1697). The funeral service will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. at the Fulton Christian Church, 14108 East W Ave, Fulton. Burial will be at North Fulton. Please visit Ted’s webpage at www.lifestorynet.com where you can sign the guestbook and share a memory and/or photo. Those who wish may make a contributions to the BSBP Training Center or the charity of choice.