| Graduation Year | Class of 1966 |
| Date of Passing | Jan 10, 2016 |
| About | John was raised in Westerville, Ohio although graduated high school from Bob Jones Academy. He attended Bob Jones University for two years, earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Kentucky, and obtained his Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Dayton. John's paternal grandfather served in the Union Army during the Civil War and his father enlisted in the Navy during WWII. John proudly followed in his forefathers' footsteps by enlisting in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. During his four regular years of service with the 307th Avionics Bombardment Wing, John was stationed at Barkesdale AFB, U-Tapao AB (Thailand), and Guam. He also served four additional years in the Air National Guard with the 106th Air Refueling Group at Rickenbacker AFB. John retired from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base after 24 years of civilian service where he managed the acquisition and financial aspects of numerous Aeronautical Systems Division programs including several black world projects. John's career choice (as well as, his private pilot license) reflected his love of airplanes. John was fiercely patriotic and actively supported various organizations advocating individual liberty and limited constitutional government. He also served as a caregiver to many of God's creatures and received great joy in rescuing and nurturing countless furry and feathered friends. John had a kind heart, a warrior's soul, and a wicked sense of humor. A loving husband, devoted father, and trusted friend to many; he will be greatly missed by all those privileged to have known him well. John is survived by his wife of 34 years, Pamela Grove Holdren; children, David Holdren, Sidney Holdren, and Zackary Holdren; and sisters, Sharon Holdren and Rebecca (David) Holdren Bryant. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Holdren and Vera Hardbarger Holdren. A private internment will be held at Dayton National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org). Condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family at www.routsong.com. |
