HOLMES, Jan Clark

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, Arizona Published Wednesday, September 22, 2010 Jan Clark Holmes Dec. 31, 1947 – Sept. 18, 2010 Jan Clark Holmes, of Lake Havasu City, died Sept. 18 surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his father, John Holmes; mother, Rowena Holmes; and sister, Judy Dupont. He is survived by his wife, Lisa Holmes; brother, Jeff Holmes; and children, Harrison Holmes, Cassandra Holmes, James Wilson and Mark Holmes. Jan was born on New Year’s Eve in Burlington, Vt., in 1947. His family settled in East Hartford, Conn., where he grew up. Like the “boy named Sue” in the famous Johnny Cash song, growing up with a “girl’s name” made Jan tough and strong. After high school, Jan moved to Arizona for college. It was at this time he developed his lifelong love of the desert. He loved to call his loved ones to ask about the weather when he was in shorts and T-shirt and they were busy shoveling. He, his first wife, Sheila, and young son, Harrison, moved to Colorado, where they were joined by his daughter, Cassandra. After his first marriage ended, Jan wandered for many years only to return to his beloved desert in 1989. It was here he met the love of his life, Lisa Wilson. It was here he was joined by his sons, James and Mark. He had many talents — an avid athlete, artist and craftsman. He had an immense natural ability and could pick up almost anything with little practice. Jan was a willing and enthusiastic participant in his kid’s lives. From coaching basketball to chaperoning school trips, Jan was there. A life-long animal lover, he was a compassionate guardian of his and his kid’s many pets. From family trips to golf outings with his friends or just having a beer at the Desert Martini, Jan always made sure everyone had a good time. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A celebration of Jan’s life will take place at 4 p.m. Saturday at Lietz-Fraze Chapel. Thoughts and condolences may be submitted to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were placed under the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home and Crematory.