Lenn C. Holman

Lenn C. Holman, 89, of La Grande died Monday, May 8 at his home. Mr. Holman was born on a homestead outside Volburg, Montana to Charles and Iva Holman. In 1928 the family moved to Gates, returning to homestead in Montana two years later. In 1934 the family sold the homestead and moved to Falls City where Mr. Holman finished high school.

Next he went to work for the Civilian Conservation Corps in Heppner from 1937 to 1939. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1941 and was in the Sea Bees serving in the Philippines. After four years of military service he went to Oregon State College where he was a member of Phi Kappa Tau. He graduated with a degree in business management. On December 21, 1949 he married Miriam Macpherson in the Oakville Church in Oakville. They enjoyed 55 loving years together.

The couple owned and operated two restaurants in Corvallis, Holman's Sunnybrook and the Kaffe Haus. After 21 years in the restaurant and catering business they moved with their three daughter in 1968 to La Grande, where he took a job as office manager for Courtright Irrigation.

Mr. Holman was a longtime member of the Lions Club and was a founding member of the La Grande Toastmasters. He served as District Governor for the Lions in 1985-86 and received the honor of Lion of the Year in 1985-86 and 1988-89. He was also recognized for 50 years of service to the Lions Club. He was an avid antique collector, enjoyed world travels with his wife, gardening, reading and spending time with his family.

Survivors include daughters, Marilyn Hoopes of Tacoma, Washington, Linda Engle of La Grande and Maggi Holman of Cove; sisters, May Barnard and Carol Thompson; six grandchildren; on great granddaughter and numerous nieces and nephews. His brothers, Richard and Charles, Jr. and most recently his wife Miriam died earlier.

At his request a family graveside will be conducted in the Oakville Cemetery in Oakville. Memorials can be made to the La Grande Noon Lions Club or the Grande Ronde Hospital Hospice.