Alton Bradford Holmes

Alton “Al” Holmes, born on November 10th, 1939, in Houghton, Michigan passed away on December 4th, 2025.

Al was predeceased by his parents, Leslie and Mabel Holmes, as well as three siblings Benjamin Holmes, Phillip Holmes, and Edith Stanwick. He is survived by his loving wife, JoAnn Holmes, daughter Cary Holmes, son Eric Holmes, and grandsons Benjamin and Josha Holmes; as well as his siblings Joanne and Clyde Holmes.

He married his high school sweetheart JoAnn in 1961.

Al graduated in 1962 from Michigan Technological University with a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering. He worked for Rockwell International in the heavy truck brake division where he held numerous patents and his efforts in brake design contributed to highway safety. After 30+ years of working at Rockwell he retired as “Chief Engineer”.

Al was a lifelong sailing enthusiast. He built his first boat, Esperance, and launched it in 1971. It was the beginning of many great family sailing adventures.

In 1985 he retired from Rockwell, and he and JoAnn moved to Oriental, NC with their latest boat, the Renowned. He was active in the local sailing community at Sea Harbor Yacht Club.

A celebration of life will be held in the summer to honor Al’s life and legacy. In recognition of Al’s inherent kindness, and in lieu of flowers or cards, please hug someone you love or make someone smile.