Robert Melvin Holder

Robert M. Holder, age 93, passed away on Monday, March 14, 2016 in Sebring, Florida. He was born on March 8, 1923 in Sunset, Texas to the late George B Holder and Rhoda Faye (Daniels) Holder. He was married to Geneva Holder, who preceded him in death (12/7/2014), for 43 years. Robert enlisted in the Navy in 1942 serving as cook and gunner’s mate on P.T. boat squadrons in the Pacific Theater of WWII, later he served on the USS Jupiter during the Korean conflict. Robert helped establish the Medal of Honor Park outside the Health Department in Sebring; he was very instrumental in applying for and obtaining a charter for the VFW Post 9853, Avon Park. He was an untiring organizer in getting that post started.  Robert and his wife owned the “Ranch Haus” Restaurant in Avon Park until 1996 when they retired. Robert is survived by two sisters, Ruthel DuBose Martin-Eureka, NV; Dorothy Fite-Dallas, TX, three step-children, Melvin King (Nancy)-Lake Placid, FL; Shelia Johnson-Sebring, FL; Carol King-Sebring, FL, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Robert is preceded in death by one grandchild; three brothers and two sisters.  There will be a graveside service in Fort Pierce in the near future.