1927
2017
7000 BLUE RIDGE BLVD
Kansas City, Missouri
Ralph L. Holiman, 89, passed away on Saturday, May 13, 2017. He was born on May 21, 1927 in
Gravelly, AR to Ethel and Cecil Holiman, the youngest of nine children. When he was 18 years old, he
accompanied a friend, who was planning to join the Army on a trip to Little Rock. When they arrived at
the recruitment site, a Marine Corps. Recruitment Officer approached them in line and not only did his
friend sign up to join the Marines, Ralph did as well. He later sent an apology letter to his parents for not
coming home right away. He joined the service during World War II and from 1945 to 1969 he served
his country with active tours of duty in Korea and Vietnam. He also spent portions of his career at sea on
military warships, often for months at a time. He was very proud to be a Mustang having advanced from
Private to his final position as a Captain.
During his military service, he met Neola Clark in California where they married in 1950. They lived in
California, Tennessee, North Carolina and Washington DC. They eventually settled in Kansas City, MO to
be closer to both extended families. After his military retirement, he joined the State Farm Insurance
family. He became a State Farm agent and retired from agency in 1996. His passion for helping people
was instrumental in his success as a business man and he made many friends through the years.
He is survived by his brother, Homer Bruce Holiman, of Chattanooga, TN, his sister, Mary Stewart, of
Hannibal, MO, daughter Cindy Powers of Overland Park, KS, sons Bruce Holiman (Susan) and David
Holiman (Lisa). He is also survived by his grandson, Sam Holiman, of Lee’s Summit, MO and
granddaughters, Lauren Holiman, New York, NY, and Angela Duarte (Adam) of Olathe, KS. He also leaves
behind great granddaughters, Ashlynn Marie Duarte and Arden Rose Duarte. He is also survived by
numerous nieces and nephews and was loved by all.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, May 16th from 6 to 8 pm. His funeral is Wednesday, May 17th at 10 am at
Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64133. Charitable gifts can be
made to the Blue Ridge Bible Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Newcomer's Floral Hills Funeral Home & Floral Hills Cemetery.
May 17, 2017
Mike Hooper
Sorry to hear of Ralph's passing - he was a great guy and will be missed.
May 16, 2017
Ralph was a wonderful neighbor. We always enjoyed playing cards with him. We are very sorry for your loss. Bob and Judy Alber
May 16, 2017
Ralph was such a great boss to work for & all his "girls" share wonderful memories. His heart was large & we loved him. Our deepest sympathies. Pat Robinson
May 16, 2017
Deanna Chesney
When you work for and with someone for 20+ years they become your family. Although we did get together from time to time, I have missed him since he retired. He was dedicated in all that he did and we had many good times in and out of the office. It makes me very sad that he is gone. My sincere condolences to Cindy, Bruce and David and their families. With love, Deanna
May 16, 2017
Ralph was certainly a credit to State Farm as well as to his country. Preston Goodwin
May 16, 2017
Ralph was a wonderful person and Bob and I enjoyed his friendship very much. We had a lot of good times with Neola and Ralph. You all have my deepest sympathy. Bette Mathison
May 16, 2017
Truly Ralph has made a difference in many lives both professionally and personally.
Don Woodson CLU
May 16, 2017
We are so sorry for your loss. Ralph was our agent for many years and was a wonderful man. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jack and Linda Teague
May 15, 2017
Jess and Shari Knoth
Our condolences for your loss and gratitude for your Dad's service to our country.
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Please accept our deepest sympathies.
John 14:1-6
Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
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Newcomer's Floral Hills Funeral Home & Floral Hills Cemetery7000 BLUE RIDGE BLVD, Kansas City, MO 64133
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