Donald Ralph Holm

Donald Ralph Holm passed away on October 23, 2026, at the age of 92. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Don built a life rooted in hard work, service, and love for his family. He took pride in doing things well, helping where he could, and building something that would last.

Don was born on February 26, 1934, to Ralph and Mildred Holm and was raised in Duluth’s Lester Park neighborhood alongside his younger sister, Barbara. His father taught him an early lesson that became a guiding principle throughout his life: “Work hard and do it right.” Don embraced that advice, finding both purpose and enjoyment in work. He graduated from Duluth East High School, where he enjoyed learning and participating in sports.

After high school, Don worked for his grandfather and began his apprenticeship as a carpenter. Those years laid the foundation for a lifelong construction career. At a UMD dance, Don met Carol Briesemaster, whom he married in May 1958. Together, they raised three sons and two daughters and shared 68 years of marriage.

Their growing family brought Don deep joy and pride. Summers at the family cabin on Lake Minnesuing became a cherished part of their life together, creating memories across generations.

In 1962, Don founded Donald Holm Construction Company, Inc. What began as a residential construction business grew into a company focused primarily on commercial projects. For Don, one of the most meaningful parts of that success was seeing his family carry it forward. His three sons joined the company and eventually assumed its leadership. Later, two grandsons began their own apprenticeships and ultimately took the helm, continuing the business into a third generation.

Don understood that many people contributed to the company’s accomplishments. He valued those who worked alongside him, in the office and in the field, and credited their dedication with helping the business thrive.

That same belief in working together shaped his community service, where Don became deeply involved with many local organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club, the Duluth Elks Lodge #133, and youth hockey.

He valued what the Boys and Girls Club taught him and the opportunities it provided for young people, and he was inspired to help with clubhouse projects and eventually served as president.

Don was also extremely active with the Duluth Elks Lodge #133, where he served on many committees supporting children and the greater community. Don became president in 1974 and was instrumental in moving the Lodge into the old London House.

Don carried out his passion for youth hockey through coaching for many years, and he was a key member of the group that established the Spirit of Duluth hockey tournament.

Alongside other local business leaders, Don also founded the Harbortown Rotary Club and served as its president for the first two years. The club later honored him by establishing the Donald Holm Founders Fund.

In retirement, Don and Carol enjoyed 30 wonderful years in Green Valley, Arizona, where Don served three years as president of the Minnesota Club and was an active member of the Desert Hills Lutheran Church. There, he used his construction experience on two remodeling projects and a large church addition.

His friendship with Pastor Martin meant a great deal to him. Don was particularly moved by the pastor’s message about giving time and resources, and the good we may do without ever knowing its full reach.

Don showed his love through action: providing for his family, sharing his knowledge, lending his skills, and giving his time. He leaves a legacy in the company he founded, the community he served, and, especially, the family he loved and was so proud to watch grow.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mildred; his sister, Barbara (Bruce) Aunan; his grandfather, Otto Holm; in-laws, Clarence (Audrey) Briesemaster; Jerry (Jean) Briesemaster; Janice (Richard) Bakke; and his lifelong friends Ray Quelland, Mark Hinderman, and Smitty Brookhart.

Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Carol (Briesemaster) Holm, his children Dean (Suzy) Holm, Diane Holm (Dennis Zimmerman), Duane (Carla) Holm, Daniel (Kathryn) Holm, and Denise (Jim) Olson; grandchildren Taylor and Jessica, Rhiannon and Paige, Maxell and Ryker, Alex and Carly, Troy, Trevor, and Jada; and 18 great-grandchildren.

Reflecting on a lifetime of work, family, and service, Don left these words:

“The truth be known, the pleasure has always been mine.”

In lieu of flowers, Don asked that memorials please be sent to either the Boys & Girls Club or the Harbortown Rotary Donald Holm Founders Fund.