James "Doc" H. Holden, Jr.

James “Doc” Herman Holden, Jr., 83, of Red Wing, died Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at his home in Deercrest with family all around him. He was born August 31, 1942 in Kenyon, Minn. to James, Sr. and Florence (Quade) Holden.

On October 15, 1960 he married Barbara Jean Gossett and they made a home in Red Wing. Together they raised 8 children. They later divorced.

Doc worked for Xcel Energy and later, Olson Brother’s Construction. He retired in 1991 after sustaining a back injury. In his younger years he was a stock-car racer with a number of wins under his belt. He enjoyed playing cards and cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs and the Minnesota Vikings. He was a long-time stoneware collector and was very proud of his collection of Red Wing Crocks. His greatest passion, however, was his family. While he cherished being a father, it was his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who truly lit up his world. He was incredibly proud of his family and believed deeply in the importance of staying connected. He was often the one who brought everyone together, planning annual trips to Valleyfair and family vacations at the Florida timeshare to create lasting memories. His playful sense of humor kept everyone laughing, but beneath that was a man of unwavering love and dependability. Doc was the steady foundation of the family—a constant source of strength, support, and love.

He will be missed by many, including his 5 children and 2 step-children; Penny Cole, Jamie (Curly) Clark, Bunny (Bill) Moore, Tim (Michelle) Holden, Terri Schoonmaker, Scott (Jill) Finstuen and Darla Calverley; 8 grandchildren, RyAnne, Justin, Jonathan, Brooke, Reba, Trisha, Alice and Ethan; 10 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Betty Holden; as well as many step-siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

He is preceded in death by his step-son, Steven Finstuen; 8 siblings, Marvin “Sam” Holden, Evelyn “Tootie” Hays, Pat Albrecht, Helen “Bubby” Johnson, Irene Albrecht, Glenn Holden, LaVonne Jennings, and Dennis “Pinky” Holden.

A funeral service will be 11 a.m., Friday, July 10, 2026 at United Lutheran Church in Red Wing with Rev. Justin Boeding officiating. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. prior to the service at church. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com