Thomas Edward Holeman, Jr. passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at the age of 88. He was a coal and salt miner. He retired after 30 years from Frontier Kemper. He was loved for his laughter, tall tales, cigars, makers mark, smart remarks, and tough coal miner attitude but most of all for his bravery and giving nature. He will forever be remembered for his bravery in the rescue attempt of the loss of the 21 miners at Belle Isle Salt Mines in St. Mary Parish, Louisiana on March 1, 1968.
He is survived by his children, Debbie Guess (Ramah), Leslie Peltier (Chip), and Tim Holeman (Cathy); grandchildren, Jason, Lindsey, Danny, Misty, Talitha, April, Cassie, Meagan, Dane, Abby, and Lucas; 23 great grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; and first wife and close friend, Mary Cowan Zolecki. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas E. and Mattieleen Holeman; siblings, Lorene McCann, Barbara Freer, John Holeman, and Sondra Holeman; his wife, Leona Hill.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life on Friday, August 2, 2024 at Ourso Funeral Home, 13533 Airline Hwy, Gonzales, LA 70737. Visitation will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with a Memorial Service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery, 17683 Hwy 933 Prairieville, LA 70769.
