Thomas Holleman

Thomas Holleman, better known as Tom, died on 16 September 2024 at the age of 74, after a stubborn battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by love. Tom was born in Red Bluff, California on 1 August 1950 to Dorothy and Ueal Holleman, who preceded him in death. Tom married Genie Holleman on 16 October 2009, gaining five daughters, Gabrielle, Christina, Jennifer, Danielle, and Elisabeth, and eight grandkids. Five more grandkids were added to the bunch and Tom lovingly became known as ‘Bapa’. Tom was also survived by his older sister Beverly (m Doug Hasse), his son, Joshua Holleman, and Joshua’s seven children. Tom was a proud United States Marine. Semper Fi. A Vietnam veteran, 1st Marine Division, Tom epitomized the Corps’ values of honor, courage, and commitment. Tom was at peace in the outdoors and behind the lens of his camera. He enjoyed reading, fishing, and tinkering, especially with his truck and radios. He dedicated 42 years to the Union Pacific Railroad - from laying tracks to managing the books. Tom’s life had highs and lows, laughter and regrets. He became cleansed anew when he was born again in the Lord. Tom took being prepared to another level. He had a tool for every situation, usually multiple. Whether you needed a spanner, a water bottle, or a camping mat, Tom had your back. He’d sort through his things, hand you the best of what he had, and say it was yours. It’s fair to say that gifts were one of Tom’s love languages. Not receiving them - he only ever asked for brownies for Christmas - but giving - flowers for Genie, jewelry for his girls, time. Tom was a man of few words, who spoke best through his actions. Helping a grandkid change the oil in their car, maintaining the yard, stacking enough firewood on the back porch to survive blizzards never before seen in Sacramento. Tom was strong and stubborn, principled and proud. He loved his fellow veterans, he loved the Lord, and he loved the big family that welcomed him with open arms. He will be dearly missed during Monday night football, cross-country road trips, and morning coffee quiet time. Tom will be interred at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon with military honors. A public Celebration of Life will be held at 4pm on Friday, September 27, 2024, at Calvary Chapel Laguna Creek in Elk Grove, California. All are welcome. A dessert reception will follow the service, in honor of Tom’s sweet tooth! Pv 3:5-6 Rest in peace Bapa.

Thomas Holleman

August 1, 1950 - September 16, 2024