Frederick Lyal Holden

Nancy, I am so sorry for your loss of your husband. Fred and my husband, Jim , were great working partners at NMDHS for several years.

Sending my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Fred. He was my neighbour on Glenview Cres for decades. I will always remember him rollerblading around the street. He always had the biggest smile and was the kindest man. He was a staple in the neighbourhood and he will be missed. Keeping his family and friends in my prayers. My deepest sympathies, Becky

I would like to pass on my family’s condolences to Fred’s family. I am able to give my praise for Fred‘s outstanding devotion to football. In 1965 and 1966; I played football with Coach Fred at NMHDS. After I moved to Strathroy two of my sons were coached by Fred at SDCI however, for me, most memorable was attending a game in London 2 years ago where my grandson was playing for Strathroy ,I met Fred again ; a coach for three generations of Football ; Rob Waters

It is with great sadness that I heard of the passing of Coach Holden. I played football for Coach in the early 1980's at SDCI. After one year of junior football in 1978, our football program folded and I was heartbroken. Coach Holden came to SDCI from NMDHS and I met him early on. He was driven to revive the team. I was equally driven to play for him. I played three more seasons of football and although we didn't win much, I learned a lot and had a lot of fun. Without Coach's determination and dedication, I would not have had that experience. Because he gave me, and many others the opportunity to play football, I was fortunate enough to go on and play CJFL football in London and university football at Western. Several others I know, also went on to play higher levels of football. We all owe Coach a debt of gratitude for giving us the chance. Well after my playing days, I took up officiating and would run into Coach Holden every couple of seasons. He always had time for me and was always a true gentleman. Last fall, I had the chance to return to Strathroy and officiate a junior/ senior double header, under the lights on the old SDCI field where I had played my last high school game, 41 years earlier, almost to the day. It was fitting that Coach Holden was there and I was lucky enough to have my photo taken with him one last time. Thanks Coach, for everything. Rest in peace. Go Saints! Jeff Dunham

Nancy, Kelly, Heather, Pam and Christie- My heartfelt condolences to you and your families at this time of deep sorrow and grief. I was extremely saddened to hear of Fred’s passing. I thought there was always time to call and reconnect “tomorrow”. Fred would have said “Why not today?” Fred was a very caring, wise and insightful man and will live on forever in the memories and hearts of all those whose lives he touched. May God’s love, strength and peace carry you through this difficult time. Love, Harriet

Fred was one of the kindest coaches I've ever had. He lived and breathed the game of football and he was never afraid to make a call on a play. My sincerest condolences to his friends, and family. It has truly been an honour to meet him and learn how to play football with his teachings. Rest In Peace Fred.

Regrettably I am unable to attend the memorial for Fred, as I will be out of the country on that day. So I am offering these few words in Fred's memory. Sport is a great form of creating camaraderie and friendships. It was my pleasure to meet Fred many years ago and to play basketball with he, his son Fraser, and more recently the Huff n' Puff basketball legends. I will remember Fred as a true gentleman, sportsman, and role model. It has been an honour to share some of Fred's space during his life well lived.

Nancy, Kelly, Heather, and Pam: While listening to The Met Church service online this morning, was shocked and saddened to hear of Fred's passing. He was such a Wonderful and Kind man, who will greatly missed by many. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the service in his memory, but hope to touch base down the way. Heaps of Hugs, Kaye W

I send my sincere condolences during this time of sorrow. The Bible gives a real hope and promise your loved one will live again on a beautiful paradise earth when death will be no more. (John 5:28, 29; Revelation 21:4)

Heartbroken to hear of the passing of our dear Uncle Fred. I am so glad I was able to spend time with him and Nancy after my dad’s passing in 2023. What an impact he had on so many lives!! Our deepest condolences to Nancy, Kelly, Heather, Pam, Christie, and the rest of the Holden family.

Our sincere condolences to Nancy and the Holden family. Fred was a loving, considerate, dedicated person who was a joy with whom to work. His immense contribution to SDCI football will be greatly missed.

Our condolences at this difficult time Fred has been a great neighbours. We will miss his friendly words.

Nancy and family Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you. Chuck and Janis Box

Mr. Holden was a wonderful coach at NMDHS. My brother Robert Brown had such respect for him during his football years. We both would go talk our problems out with Mr. Holden. I always wanted him as a coach as well. He certainly had a gift as a teacher My sympathy to his family. With Fond Memories Janis

Our very sincere condolences to all of the Holden family. Fred was my Phys Ed teacher for 4 years at NMDHS. Fred wore many hats as a coach in football, basketball, volleyball, track & field, cross country, wrestling, badminton and any other sport someone took an interest in, he was there for you. He was also there to listen to personal problems and give very sage advice. I would run into Fred several times after graduation and was able to help celebrate his 80th birthday. Fred was a very prominent person in my life and I am a better person for having known him. R.I.P. Coach.