Leonard Holmquist, age 90, of Gustine, California, passed away peacefully at his home on July 10, 2024.
Leonard was born on December 7, 1933, in Kingman, Kansas, to Fred and Madge Holmquist. He was one of five children, growing up alongside his brother Leon and sisters Elna, Thelma, and Wilma Kay. In 1939, Leonard’s family relocated to Hermiston, Oregon, where he attended local schools and later graduated from Lakeview High School.
In July 1951, Leonard answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. He served for nine years. Leonard saw action in the Korean War in 1952 as part of the 67TAC Recon Unit, earning the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1960.
He welcomed his daughter, Tracy Len Holmquist, in 1966 with former spouse Carolyne Adams.
On August 2, 1970, Leonard married Rosaline DeOliveira, the love of his life. Together, they built a home in Gustine, California, where they shared 53 wonderful years.
Leonard was a hard worker and spent many years as a long-haul truck driver, traveling across the country and cherishing the times when Rosaline could join him on the road. Later, he settled into local work as an HVACR mechanic at Foster Farms and Gallo Winery, where he was respected for his skill and dedication.
A man of deep faith and commitment to his community, Leonard taught gun safety for many years and was instrumental in starting several churches in the area. He faithfully attended Sunday services and was a passionate supporter of southern gospel music, often attending concerts with Rosaline and befriending many of the performers.
Leonard’s compassion for others was evident in his “Broken Heart” campaign, inspired by the tragic passing of a local elementary school girl. He advocated for and succeeded in having an 8-foot broken heart painted on 6th Avenue in Gustine to raise awareness for community safety.
Leonard is survived by his beloved wife, Rosaline Holmquist; his daughter, Tracy Bartholomew, and her husband Rick; six grandchildren: Brandalen, Richard, Andrew, Hannah, Grace, and Malachi; six great-grandchildren: Aschlen, Finnleigh, Bentley, Savannah, Ezekiel, and Leona; sisters Thelma Lindner and Wilma Kay DeBoy; nieces Carol, Kay, May, Jill, Chylene, and Jennifer; nephews Dennis, Ron, Gordon, Jeff, Darin, and Chad.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Madge Holmquist; his brother Leon Holmquist; his sister Elna Holmquist; nephew Dick Lindner; and great nephew Trevor Holcomb.
Leonard will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His legacy of kindness, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
A committal service will be held on Friday, December 5th, at 1:00 p.m. at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella, California. Leonard will be interred alongside his beloved wife, Rosaline Holmquist.
