Holdren, William J.

William J. Holdren, 88, of Denton, Texas, formerly of Cedar Rapids, died Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011 at his home after a short illness. Private graveside service Tuesday at the Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call at the Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home from 4 to7 p.m. Monday. Per Bill's request the casket will be closed at all times.

Survivors include two daughters, Linda and Diane; and a son, Jim. He also is survived by seven grandchildren;two great-granddaughters; and one great-grandson. He was preceded in death by his wifeand a son, John.

Bill was born on June 14, 1923 in Council Bluffs, the son of Milford and Gladys DuVall Holdren. He married E. Jean Buthman on August 2, 1945 in Algona. She died in 2006. Bill was a teacher and coach at Washington High School for many years and was inducted into the Washington Teachers Hall of Fame.

He was an avid bass fisherman, accomplished artist, a chartered member of the Cedar Rapids Bass Masters, and proudly served in the Army Air Corps during World Ward II.

Memorial donations may be given to the American Cancer Society in Bill's name. Please leave a message or tribute to the Holdren family on our Web page, under obituaries.

Published in The Gazette Dec. 18, 2011.