Obituary - Fern (Bosch) Holmes

Fern (Bosch) Holmes was born on October 22, 1929, in Zurich, MT, to Julius and Ella (Friede) Bosch, and passed away August 17, 2019, in Havre, MT, surrounded by her loving family.

Fern grew up on the family farm southeast of Chinook, attending Snake Butte School through the eighth grade, graduating from Chinook High School in 1948. She worked in the Blaine County Clerk and Recorders office upon graduation, and later worked at Chinook High School as secretary to the superintendent.

Fern married Robert (Bob) Holmes October 11, 1953. They were blessed with three children, Lynda, Nancy, and David. Together, Bob and Fern opened Bob's Drapery and Floor Covering in 1961, which they owned and operated until retiring in 1993.

Fern enjoyed bowling, dancing, crossword puzzles, reading, watching "Jeopardy," sewing, embroidery, baking, hosting delicious holiday meals for her family, and anything relating to flowers. She helped out at Paradise Valley Greenhouse for her "dirt therapy," and at Milam Floral for her dear friend Lynette Friede. Fern and Bob spent countless hours tending to their yard, achieving "Yard of the Week" several times.

Fern was preceeded in death by her parents; husband, Bob; brothers, Melvin, Marvin, Ralph, and Wayne Bosch, sister, Frances Savage, nephews Allen Bosch and Terry Savage, and great-grandson Gavin VandeSandt.

Fern is survived and missed by her daughters Lynda (Keith) VandeSandt of Inverness, Nancy Harrison of Havre, son Dave (Patty) Holmes of Havre, five grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, five bonus grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Mom, Gma (as she was affectionately called by her grandchildren), Oma or Omo to her great-grands, was an amazing blessing to all, and will be greatly missed.

Fern's celebration of life will be held Saturday August 24, 2019, at the American Lutheran Church in Chinook at 11 a.m., with a luncheon following in the church basement.