Gerald Jay Holmes

Gerald Holmes, age 55, of Russell, Minnesota, died peacefully and surrounded by family at his home on Sunday, February 18, 2024. Funeral Services are 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Marshall. Following a luncheon, interment will be in the Lynd City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Friday, February 23, 2024, at Cornerstone United Methodist Church. The evening will close with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will then continue one hour prior to his service, from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, again at the church.

Gerald Jay Holmes was born on June 6, 1968, in Slayton, Minnesota. He was the 6th of 7 children born to Alfred “Sonny” and Wyonne (Scarset) Holmes. Gerald was baptized as an infant and later confirmed at the Lutheran Church in Slayton. He graduated with the Slayton High School class of 1987. He then continued his education at Minnesota West in Jackson where he learned Auto Body repair, graduating in 1989. Gerald always had a love of cars and mischief. In his youth, he participated in cross country and wrestling. He enjoyed dirt track racing and anything with a motor. He taught himself the ins and outs of everything he touched.

In 1989, Gerald found the love of his life, Nichole Sanow and a few years later they had married and started a family. They made their home in Russell, Minnesota, with their children: Erica, Nicholas, and Alek.

Gerald was a busy man with an answer to everything. There wasn't much he couldn't do. Whether it be trucking, racing, construction, auto body work or how to get yourself out of some trouble, Gerald had a story to share and a lesson to teach. He took such pride in every project he worked on and got so much joy in sharing his knowledge with others – namely with coworkers at Schwan’s, D&G Excavating, Wayne Transport, Enviro Pump Plus, and Gravely Trucking. In 2013, Gerald began his own business, Holmes Trucking.

Aside from his many projects, Gerald was extremely driven and worked hard to provide for those he loved the most. He was, at times, known to work for days on end. He proved over and over how little sleep someone actually needs.

Gerald was always someone that his friends and family could depend on and was known for helping with whatever he could. Maybe it was an inability to say no, maybe it was just the fact that he was the only one with the knowledge and skill. Whichever it was, Gerald was the "go-to guy" for almost everything. Gerald will be forever remembered by his mischievous antics, his unbelievable stories, and his infectious laugh. 

In September of 2023, Gerald was diagnosed with brain cancer. After a hard-fought battle, he succumbed to the illness on February 18th, 2024. He was surrounded by his wife and his kids in his last moments. He had reached the age of 55 years, 8 months, and 13 days. Blessed be his memory.

He is survived by his wife, Nichole Holmes of Russell; 3 children, Erica Holmes of Russell, Nicholas Holmes of Russell, Alek Holmes (and Contessa Baartman) of Balaton; 1 granddaughter, Charlee; 7 siblings, Anny Mae Holmes of Windom, Barb (and Bruce) Haken of Slayton, Vernon Holmes of Balaton, Robert (and Deb) Holmes of Tyler, Marlowe Holmes of Aurora, SD, Susan Arends of Cottonwood, Craig (and Carlene) Holmes of Fulda; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Sonny and Wyonne; father-in-law, Rick Sanow; and brother-in-law, Shane Sanow.