Richard Holen Obituary

RICHARD DAVID HOLEN Richard David Holen, a devoted husband, father, educator, veteran, and lifelong advocate for others, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025, at the age of 77. Born in International Falls, Minnesota, on April 13, 1948, Richard grew up with a deep respect for service and community. He served in Vietnam War, and his experiences there shaped a lifelong commitment to helping fellow veterans. After returning home, Richard dedicated himself to ensuring that Vietnam veterans received the recognition and support they deserved guiding many through the process of accessing benefits at the Department of Veterans Affairs with quiet determination and unwavering compassion. He also worked for over 2 decades on a documentary that honored and remembered the Command Military Touring shows, of which he toured as a performer, that were deployed all over Vietnam during the war. Following his military service, Richard pursued a career in the arts, becoming a college professor of technical theater. With a sharp mind for design and a heart tuned to mentorship, he made a lasting impact on students across decades of teaching. In scene shops, control booths, and classrooms, Richard brought productions to life and helped young people find their voicenot just as theater professionals, but as confident, thoughtful human beings. His influence stretched well beyond the stage. Since retiring to International Falls, MN he has left a positive mark on this community. His generosity to his fellow residents and photographs that are displayed locations will be remembered and admired for years to come. Richard is survived by his wife of many years, Anna (Kojola) Holen; his son, Patrick Holen; his daughter, Alison Holen; and a wide circle of former students, colleagues, friends, and fellow veterans whose lives were better for having known him. He will be remembered for his dry wit, quiet strength, generous spirit, painting and photography. A celebration of Richard's life will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Green-Larsen Mortuary. A family-only burial service will be held at 1:00 PM at Forest Hill Cemetery in the VFW section. There will be an informal gathering at Loony's Brew at 2:00 PM. He built more than sets - he built futures. And his light will continue to shine through the many lives he touched. Condolences may be left on www.greenlarsen.com Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary, Inc.