Donald Dean Holmberg, 81, of Hutchinson, Kansas, went home to meet Jesus on September 14, 2024.
He was born in Girard, Kansas in 1943 to Donald and Mary Holmberg. He graduated from Blue Valley Rural High School in 1961. Don joined the Army National Guard and attended Kansas State University. He then began a long, distinguished career with Kansas Highway Patrol in 1966, eventually achieving the rank of Area Field Sargeant.
Don married the love of his life, Colene Ann Wilson, on June 3, 1967, in Clay Center, Kansas.
They began their lives together in Pittsburgh, Kansas and shared 57 years of marriage. Don and Colene were blessed with three children, Kirk, Kyle and April. They raised their family in Larned, Kansas, before moving to Hutchinson after retiring.
His relationship with Jesus was very important to Don. He was a faithful member of the churches he attended, and he led his family well.
Don was an avid hunter and fisherman and fostered his children’s and grandchildren’s love of the outdoors. He treasured the fishing trips made to Roaring River and the all day pheasant hunts with his family. The Ozarks were a favorite camping spot for Don and the family while they lived in Pittsburg. After moving to Larned and on to Hutchinson, they enjoyed spending time with their family camping and boating at Wilson Lake. Don enjoyed golfing, bird watching, and gardening, even earning the title of Master Gardner. Don loved watching the Royals, the Chiefs, Gunsmoke and John Wayne.
Though he enjoyed all of these activities, Don’s favorite role was that of father and grandfather.
He was always there for his children and grandchildren, and he enjoyed helping them with various projects and activities. Don rarely missed a school program or sporting event and was each grandchild’s biggest (and second loudest - next to their grandma) fan.
Don also loved all creatures, especially his numerous furry friends over the years. He treated each and every pet like a valuable family member. Muffy will miss Don’s love and attention (and also all the extra snacks).
Don will be remembered for immeasurable love for his family. He will be forever missed.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Mary Holmberg, and is survived by his wife, Colene Holmberg, Hutchinson, sons Kirk (Jackie) Holmberg and Kyle (Shannon) Holmberg, Hutchinson, daughter, April Cruz, Manzanola, Colorado, grandchildren, Kolby (Dakiree) Holmberg, Korey Holmberg, Samuel (Abbie) Cruz, Gabriel Cruz, Luke Holmberg, Zoey Holmberg, Max Henderson, and Ryland Henderson, and sisters Dianne Rasmusson and Debra Myers.
Don’s memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Inspire Church, 4290 N. Monroe, Hutchinson, Kansas. The family will receive friends at Inspire Church from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Inspire Church or Gentiva Hospice and sent in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS 67502.