Ella Mae Holtman

Ella Holtman, age 92, passed away on August 9, 2023 with her children by her side in Belleville, IL. She was born in DuBuque, Iowa, one of 7 children, to LT and Margaret Krebs. As the daughter of a Presbyterian minister, she lived in several different places, graduating from Nashville, IL high school. She then attended nursing school, beginning her career as a labor and delivery nurse, providing loving care to countless new mothers and babies until her retirement in 1990. She married the love of her life, Big Ed Holtman, in August of 1952. They enjoyed 61 years of love, laughter, and joy until Ed passed in 2013.

She is survived by her children, Matthew (Terri), Michael (Stacey), and Tracey (Jeff), grandchildren, Bradley (Jamie) and Jennifer (Travis), and 4 great-grandchildren, Tristan, Azella, Oliver, and Elliot. Family, friends, and faith were the most important things in her life. She loved unconditionally and completely, sharing her kindness and joy of life with everyone she met. She met the challenges of life with her unshakeable faith and courage, a shining example to all who knew and loved her. We may have lost her physical presence, but her love and light cannot be extinguished.

The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses of Memorial Hospital West who cared for her in her last days, the palliative care staff, and especially, Chaplain Cari. Your kindness and support in our most difficult time was so greatly appreciated.

A private family service will be held.