Tom Holzer

Thomas (“Tom”) Joseph Holzer of Bismarck, North Dakota, age 79, passed away under hospice care on August 2, 2024. Tom was born on August 15,1944 in Bismarck, North Dakota to Joseph and Katherine (Helt) Holzer. He was raised in Fort Yates, North Dakota where he graduated from high school. At age 18, Tom enlisted in the Army as a paratrooper for the 101st Infantry Airborne Division. (A.K.A “The Screaming Eagles”). He made over 1000 jumps during his army career at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. Fort Benning, GA, Fort Campbell, KY & Fort Polk, LA. He earned the 1st Class Gunner badge, Parachutist badge, Expert Rifle badge, Sharpshooter badge, Driver badge, Code of Conduct badge & Airborne & Combat Training.

He attended Bismarck Jr. College, and had several careers throughout his lifetime including Bismarck Parks & Recreation, United Tribes, Miller Insulation, Capital American Insurance Agent, and an independent Real Estate agent. For the past 19 years, Tom was a long-distance truck driver for Valley Express hauling frozen foods to the South & bringing back bananas to Super Value stores.

He loved his 5 acres homestead that he shared with his dogs, Max and Rosie. Tom enjoyed puttering in his workshop on woodworking projects and tending his land when he wasn’t traveling for work.

Tom had a big heart & was always willing to listen to or help others when needed. He was very active in the AA program for many years, and used to visit the sick & cheer them up at the hospitals. Everyone he ever did business with knew him and warmly greeted him.

Tom is survived by sons Justin Holzer (Minneapolis, MN) and Kristopher (Michelle) Olson (Santa Fe, NM); sister Joan (Dennis) Gad (Bismarck, ND); his two granddaughters: Rhyan Holzer (St Cloud, MN), Sydney Holzer (Minneapolis, MN); nephew Brad Bentley (Bozeman, MT) and niece Denise Bentley (Bismarck, ND).

He is preceded in death by parents, Joe & Katherine Holzer.

Honorary Pallbearers

Bill Holzer, David Holzer, Bradley Bentley, Dennis Gad

Memorials may be made to:

Central Dakota Humane Society