He passed away unexpectedly at Grand River Hospital on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on August 8, 1953, in Galt, Richard lived a life defined by hard work, craftsmanship, and deep devotion to his family.Beloved and devoted husband of Brenda (Braun) Holst, whom he married on October 6, 1973, Richard and Brenda shared over 52 years of love, partnership, and dedication to one another. Together they built not only homes, but a strong and loving family. Cherished father of Nathan Holst (Nicole Ivory), Jonathan Holst (Amanda), and Amanda Garland (Trevor). Proud and loving grandfather of Connor, Claire, Kevin (Kambel), Ashley (Brayden), Ethan, Emily, Joshua, Noah, and Launa. Richard’s greatest joy was found in time spent with his FAMILY & FRIENDS. He was loved by all, and an integral part to many. He will be dearly missed by his mother Mae (Zehr) Holst, by his siblings Donell Holst (Judy), Brian Holst (Iris McNab), Dennis Holst (Linda), Glenn Holst (Debbie), Rosemary Wenger (David), and Michael Holst (Margaret); by his mother-in-law Dianne Braun, his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Pat Wagler (Bob), Kathy Perry (Joe), Rob Braun (Helga), and Mark Wiese (Ida); and by his many nieces and nephews.Richard was predeceased by his father, Clarence Holst, by his sister Yvonne Anthony and her husband Ivan, by his father-in-law Walter Braun, and step father-in-law Bruce Wiese.
A special thank you to the Staff in the Intensive Care Unit at Grand River Hospital for your kindness and strength.
Relatives and friends are invited to the Mark Jutzi Funeral Home, 291 Huron Street, New Hamburg, on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 1 – 4 & 6 – 8 p.m. Funeral service will take place at Steinmann Mennonite Church, 1316 Snyders Road East, Baden, on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 3 p.m. Cremation to follow. Interment to take place at a later date.
As expressions of sympathy, and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Habitat for Humanity or Mennonite Central Committee. Personal condolences can be placed for the family at www.markjutzifuneralhomes.ca
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