It is with extreme sadness that the family of Dennis Roger Holcom, 76, announces his passing. He was a bright light in this world and will be deeply missed by many.
Dennis was born on September 23, 1945, to Meredith and Mary Pendley in Hammond, but he always called Sweetser home. He was adopted and raised by his paternal grandmother and step-grandfather, Violet and Verlin Holcom. He had three siblings and several half-siblings.
Dennis graduated from Oak Hill in 1964 and went on to work at Hoosier Metal as a welder. He later retired from General Motors after 30 years as a welder.
From 1967-1969, Dennis served in the Army as a military police officer in Central America. In 1967, he married the girl next door (for real). Dennis and Judy found friendship and then love across a shared lawn in Sweetser. They grew their life and love together in a house they built in town. It is the same home where they brought both of their children home from the hospital, and it is where Dennis resided until his last day.
Dennis was an avid RC aircraft hobbyist and a member of both the Mississinewa Sky Hawks RC Club and the Converse Flying Eagles RC Club. He was also a member of Grace Community Church. Dennis loved music and could often be found tapping his foot and singing along to all sorts of genres of music.
Dennis loved spending time with his family and entertained everyone with stories of his misbegotten youth and many adventures. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We know that, as he was welcomed home, he was already looking over Jesus’ shoulder to find his grandson, Mark.
Anyone who knew Dennis even for a moment became his friend. His kindness, humor, and warm spirit were a draw to many. He never shied away from a person in need, and many have found comfort in his company.
Survivors include his wife, Judith (Stevens) Holcom; children, Kevin (Brenda) Holcom and Lori (Bryan) Harper; grandchildren, Curtis (Lauren) Holcom, Marlee (Dylan) Cockrell, Kendra (Gabe) Flores, Garrett Sumpter, Reese Blair, and Sophie Blair; six great-grandchildren; and his cat, Bubba.
Visitation is 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Thursday, January 6, 2022, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
All are invited to join in a celebration of Dennis’ life at 11:00 am on Friday, January 7, 2022, with additional visitation from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Pastor Tom Mansbarger will be officiating with burial following.
Donations may be made to Cornea Research Foundation, 2002 N. Meridian St., Ste. 212, Indianapolis, IN 46260 or to Grace Community Church, 1810 E. Bradford Pike, Marion, IN 46952.
The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to the Marion Health staff, Dr. Orrell, Dr. Sedaghat, and Dr. Rex for their kindness and compassion and for the way they loved on Dennis as they provided his care.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com. To send flowers to the family of Dennis R. Holcom please visit our Tribute Store.