Phil Holden

John Philip "Phil" Holden, 74, of Bellevue, Mich., formerly of Cape Girardeau, died Friday, Jan. 27, 2012, at his home.

He was born Oct. 31, 1937, in St. Louis, son of Dr. Raymond F. and Gertrude Kies Holden.

Phil received degrees from Monmouth College, the University of Pennsylvania, and received a doctorate from Michigan State University. He was a physics professor at several colleges more than 20 years and also served as a consultant to rectify errors found in science textbooks used in the schools. Phil was also a commercial beekeeper and owner of Holden's Honey for a number of years, supplying honey to several local grocery chains.

He and Linda Kay Duncan were married Dec. 22, 1965, in San Jose, Calif.

Survivors include his wife; a son, Jeffrey (Denise) Holden of North Adams, Mich.; three loving grandchildren, Jeffrey Cole Holden, Stephen Patrick Holden and Aleah Danielle Holden; a brother, Raymond F. (Susie) Holden III of Oklahoma; a sister, Rebecca (David) Deckard of Kansas; five nieces and nephews.

Phil was a member of First Presbyterian Church more than 40 years. He truly enjoyed gardening and was often a vendor at the farmers market. He loved spending time with his family and was very proud of his ancestors and the family's historic farm in Bellevue.

At the request of the family, they will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m. today at First Presbyterian Church, 111 Capital Ave. NE, Battle Creek, Mich.

A memorial service to celebrate Phil's life will be held at 3 p.m. today at the church.

Farley-Estes and Dowdle Funeral Home in Battle Creek is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials directed to First Presbyterian Church would be appreciated.

Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.