May 26, 1942- July 26, 2023
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of William D. Holman, a beloved member of the San Diego community. William, known affectionately as Bill, peacefully departed on July 26th, with his son, daughter and oldest grandson by his side.
Bill was born in Palo Alto, California, the son of Mary and Darrell Holman, and was the eldest of nine children, comprising eight boys and one girl. He completed his education with determination and excellence, graduating from Immaculate Conception School in Monrovia, California, Monrovia High School, and attended Oregon State University, where he became an active member in the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. It was at Oregon State where he met his wife, Carol, and the two of them were inseparable. After Oregon State, Bill served out the balance of his duty in the Army at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Bill decided to attend law school and he and Carol moved to San Diego so he could Attend the University of San Diego Law School.
Following his education, he dedicated his career to the San Diego County District Attorney's office, working as a deputy district attorney from 1972 until his well-deserved retirement in 2002. During this time, he also continued to serve his country and was an Army Reservist and served in the JAG corps for 30 years and retired as a colonel.
Throughout his long and passionate law career, Bill began his career in the San Diego District Attorney’s office prosecuting murder cases, and then transitioned and focused primarily on combating drug trafficking and was in charge of the Narcotics Unit. He found fulfillment and purpose in his role as a District Attorney, but above all, his greatest love was his wife of 58 years, Carol, whom he met at Oregon State University. Together, they shared a love for scuba diving and traveled the world, exploring the wonders of the ocean. Skiing was another passion they enjoyed and shared with their family, embarking on memorable road trips to Mammoth Mountain and other ski resorts throughout the country.
Sports also played a significant role in Bill's life, and he was a committed and loyal Padres fan for 52 years. He owned season tickets from the days of Jack Murphy Stadium to the present at Petco Park, making unforgettable memories while cheering for his beloved team. He was fortunate enough to attend 2 all-star games, 2 world series, and multiple football bowl games which brought him great joy. Bill loved all sports and he was a fixture at his grandkid’s sporting events and his son, Mark’s high school football games and was fortunate enough to be a part the 3 CIFS football championships. Bill also was a season ticket holder for Oregon State football, San Diego State Football and attended games regularly.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Carol, and brothers Tom and Phil. He is survived by his siblings, Mary, Jim, Dave, Chris, Steve, and Bob Holman, and children, Mark Holman of Glendora and Traci Gallagher, son-in-law Jonathan Gallagher of Encinitas and 5 grandchildren, Breanna (Holman), Brady, Parker, Ashlyn and Peyton Gallagher.
The Funeral Mass to celebrate Bill's life will be held at 9:30 am on Monday, August 14th 2023, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, located at 2808 Cadiz Street, San Diego, CA 92110. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making contributions in Bill's memory to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, which held a special place in his heart during the final years of his life.
Bill Holman lived a life filled with dedication to justice and love for his family and community. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
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Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.beardsleymitchell.com for the Holman family.
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