Holmes, Ethel “Rena” – April 9, 2022 (94)

In loving memory of Ethel “Rena” Holmes who passed away peacefully at Pioneer Manor on Saturday, April 9th, 2022, at the age of 94.


She was the wife of Milton Holmes (predeceased) for 56 years. Rena was born in Pangman, Saskatchewan to Percy and Edna Hone. She had many fond memories of her youth on the farm where she also met her husband-to-be. Rena had a ‘need for speed’ and found that first in the horses she rode on the farm and then in the “horse” power of the automobiles she drove later in life.


She is remembered as a strong and determined wife and mother. Her greatest joy came from caring for her large family by cooking, baking and feeding everyone. Her baked goodies were often the highlight of the week for her large brood. She was always willing to put their needs ahead of her own.  


Her immediate family consisted of her husband, Milton (predeceased), her son Bob (Linda), daughter Linda (predeceased), daughter Pamela (predeceased), daughter Shelley (Leonard Winch), daughter Valorie (Barry Muncaster), daughter Toni Lynn (Terry Mannette), son Colin (Stacey) and son Christopher (predeceased). Rena will be fondly remembered by her 18 grandchildren who have themselves extended the large family even more.

Rena is survived by her sisters Olive and Shirley and brother Richard.

After raising her children, Rena enjoyed the company of those of all ages, often gravitating to those younger than her which made her feel youthful. Good times and laughs were had on many occasions with family and friends over a good card game which she often excelled at. She enjoyed a good party.


For many years she was a Toronto Blue Jays fan and culminated that with attending a live game in Toronto with close family members.


As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, she felt her time was best spent sharing the hope she had from the Bible of a better world ahead. That hope kept her going even after losing her husband and three of her children in death. Those whom she shared in that work with became her closest friends. Her youthful vigour was inspirational to those around her.

The family thanks the staff of the York/Ramsey area of Pioneer Manor for their excellent care and patience over the past year. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Watchtower Society (donate.jw.org) or to the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.  A memorial service will be held on Zoom, on Saturday, April 23rd, 2022, at 2:00 pm, where all are welcome to join. (Meeting ID:  899 5113 2156 Passcode: 423423).

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  1. What a sad day for you all! Rena was always smiling!! I enjoyed every moment in the Lively hall with her!! She was never without a smile!! Always at the meetings and out in the ministry!! Another happy face that we look forward to being reacquainted with!! Although I had not seen her for many years, just saying her name brings a smile to me. How much more all of you who knew her so much better than I did. Please know that your pain is in our heart, as we know the feeling of loss of a loved one. May we never forget the hope that she had in the guarantee of better times ahead. Much love. xoxo

    By: Jennifer Sebele
    April 11, 2022

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