Donald "Gene" Holmes, age 79, of Meta, died Sunday, September 21, 2008, at St. Elizabeth Care Center. He was born in St. Louis on January 6, 1929, son of William E. and Gladys M. (Mahan) Holmes. On January 20, 1951, in Summerfield, Illinois, he was married to Doris Jean Lienau, who survives at the home.

He was a Navy veteran of the Korean Conflict and a member of Meta Christian Church.

Other survivors include three children, Gary Holmes of Meta, Susan Grant and husband Rick of Lebanon, and Michael Holmes and wife Carol of St. Louis; his twin brother, Ronald "Bud" Holmes of Argyle; and five grandchildren, John and Brian Grant, Rebecca Trent and husband Mike, and Mike and Megan Holmes.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, William "Chuck" Holmes; and one sister, Lois Mudd.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 27, at Meta Christian Church. Pastor Dale Beasterfeld will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Meta Christian Church or to a charity of the donor's choice.