Richard Larry Holmes, 81

Richard Larry Holmes was born in Rapid City, SD December 2, 1945 to Richard Lewis and Daisy Lou (Wheeler) Holmes. He attended country grade school in Westover, SD and graduated from Murdo High School in 1963. September 1963, he enlisted in the United States Navy.

Over his 20-year Navy career, he spent time at duty stations in Texas, Tennessee, Rhode Island, Virginia and California, including both Oceana and Norfolk Naval Air Stations in Virginia and China Lake Naval Weapon Center in California and also much time at sea traveling the world on the USS Essex, USS Saratoga, USS Gearing, USS Hammerberg, USS Newport News and the SS Harkness. He was so proud of his time in the service as an aviation electronic technician, helicopter crew chief and a rescue aircrewman, completing over 300 life-saving missions as a member of a Naval Aviation Search and Rescue team. He was a true patriot who so loved his country and instilled those values in his family.

He retired honorably in October 1983 to Valentine, NE where he worked as an auto mechanic at both Rodco and Miller Brothers, then in 1992, he began ranching in Todd County, SD.

Larry and Janine Peterson were married in Murdo, SD on December 28, 1968, and blessed with three children: Karlanne Marie, Richard Len and Deanne Renee. He was a hard worker and faithful provider for his family, but would never pass on a nap. He was so proud of his kids and grands, but told Janine if he knew how fun grandkids were, he would have had them first!

We all have so many wonderful memories with him hunting and fishing, listening to his best stories and dry sense of humor, playing his harmonica and singing with his guitar. He never knew a stranger, had the biggest, softest heart (which he wore on his sleeve) and was never stingy with a handshake, laugh or smile and for his family, cuddles, hugs and kisses.

Larry seemed to have nine lives, surviving a helicopter crash, getting t-boned by a train and surviving countless jumps from a helicopter onto mountain tops or into freezing water. For 12 years he fought bravely against congestive heart failure. The final three years were truly a gift – years filled with love, memories and moments his family will cherish. On January 10, 2026, he passed away surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, devotion and a life deeply lived. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sharon and husband Jim Millay; brother, Terry Holmes; and three nephews, Doug Millay and Lenard and James Bordeaux.

Larry is survived by Janine, his wife of 57 years; three children; six grandchildren; Karlanne (Ken) Fisbeck - Nicholas, Geoffrey and Renee (fiancé Coleton); Rick Holmes - Abigail; and Deanne (Tom) Monroe - Jack and Karly; sisters-in-law, Deb Holmes, Janelle Huffman, and Janette Peterson; and his nieces, nephews and their families, Bob Millay, Lisa Good, Cory Holmes, Stephanie Peterson, Roy Lower, Steven Lower and Amanda Lower.

Services were held at Crossroads Assembly of God Church in Valentine on Monday, December 19, 2026 with Pastor Paul Maunu officiating. Graveside services with full military honors provided by The Navy Honor Guard of Omaha, the Cherry County Veterans and the Marine Honor Guard of Rosebud followed at Mount Hope Cemetery in Valentine, NE.

Memorials may be made in care of the family and will be used to purchase and donate American flags to replace those that are tattered.