Hemlock: At age 85, Ned passed peacefully on July 31, 2020. Ned was born on April 14, 1935 in Syracuse, NY to the late Duane and Ruth (Leiterman) Holmes. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Louise (Derushia) Holmes; daughters, Elin (Jeff) Orman of Hemlock and Alison (Steve) Simpson of Victor; grandchildren, Erika (Thomas) Callahan, Hannah Orman, Sarina Simpson, and Garrett Simpson; sisters, Barbara Hippensteel and Nancy Harrison; several nieces, nephews, and many friends including his Honeoye UCC Church family.
Ned attended and graduated with a BS and MS from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, NY which led him into a 37 year career with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. After his dedicated career he retired as the Natural Resources Supervisor at the DEC Region 8, Avon, NY. He was involved with the Livingston County Center for Dispute Settlement as a mediator for 25 years, the Genesee Valley Greenway Board, Fiddlers of the Genesee, was a mentor for youth through Catholic Charities, and was also active on numerous church boards and was a past board member for the American Wildlife Research Foundation.
Ned was always on the go and had many interests. He was an avid cyclist, touring North America and Europe. He climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro at age 73 to raise money for cancer research, and enjoyed hunting and fishing. In addition, Ned was a member of the Genesee Valley Aeromodelers Club. Ned enjoyed sharing his passion of nature with others, actively mentoring youth in outdoor activities.
In light of the precautions necessitated by COVID-19, a private service will be held for the family at the Honeoye United Church of Christ, Honeoye, NY. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Honeoye UCC, PO Box 127, Honeoye, NY 14471 or to the Finger Lakes Aquarium & Museum, 3369, Guyanoga Road, Branchport, NY 14418. To send a condolence or share a memory please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
Louise and all, I am so sorry for your loss! to say Ned was a special man, is an understatement! He taught me much as we trained for Kilimanjaro, often by pushing me to think deeper and act quicker. His climbing Kili at 73 inspired me then and does so even more today. most impressive still, was his kind, and gentile manner that left me feeling better for every interaction I ever had with him! Rest in Gods love Ned, you were a faithful and inspirational servant!
Dear Louise and Family,
So sorry to hear about Ned. I know its been a struggle. We will miss his sense of humor and strength to keep going. Our prayers go out to you all.
Louise and family,
I can’t begin to tell you how saddened I am to learn of Ned’s passing. Ned was a truly great man and the very best friend one could ever have. Leigh always treasured his friendship as did I over the years. I’ll always remember his smiling face and gentle manner. May you find peace in your memories and knowing that all who knew him share in your loss.