In Memory of Wilford Holine

Wilford Holine, age 90,of Stanchfield died April 25, 2011 at his home. Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, April 29th at Elim Baptist Church in Isanti with Rev. Ryan O’Leary officiating. A visitation will held from 5:00 – 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, April 28th at Strike Funeral Home – Isanti Chapel and also one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in Isanti Union Cemetery.

Wilford Leonard Holine was born April 17, 1921 at the family home west of Stanchfield to Andrew and Annie Holine. He attended Springvale Country School through the 8th grade. After completing his primary education, he joined the National Youth Association, working on government and community projects. Wilford enlisted in the U.S. Navy in June of 1942. His service was primarily on the U.S.S. Hornet Aircraft Carrier where he proudly provided mechanical support to airplanes of the special forces night fighter pilots. His service came during the height of WWII in the South Pacific where he saw heavy air battles. He was privileged to offer support to the airplanes he serviced and pilots who overcame great adversity. His special memory occurred when he observed the raising of the U.S. Flag on Iwo Jima. He was proud to have served and relished the opportunity to share his treasured memories of the war. After his honorable discharge, he attended Dunwoody Institute and became certified in auto mechanics. He joined Minnegasco in Minneapolis shortly thereafter and retired in 1976 after 30 years on dedicated service. He loved fishing and hunting with his family and as a part time job he served the community surrounding Isanti as Mr. Fixit. He only charged what people could afford to pay him and on many occasions only charges for parts he had purchased.

Wilford Holine died unexpectedly at his home and went to be with his Lord on April 25, 2011 at the age of 90 years and 8 days. Wilford was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Annie; sister, Sylvia Nyman; grandson, Richard Hawkinson; granddaughter, Rhya Hawkinson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Anna of Stanchfield; five children, Linda (Lee) Hawkinson of Cambridge, Heidi (Dave) Salo of Cambridge, Sherry (Charlie) Bergman of Leesburg, Virginia, John (Karen) Holine of Woodbury, Jim (Jeanie) Holine of Braham; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Sonja O’Claire of Bertha; and by many other relatives and friends. He was greatly loved by his family and will be dearly missed.