Look over at that next cloud Lee. I think there is a moose there.

Thank you Mr. Holmes for believing in me. I am honored to be following in your footsteps as a Music teacher.

Lee was a major influence in the formative years of my life. He was an inspiration always. Thank you Lee !!

Lee Holmes was a very big part of my younger life as a highly respected band leader for a number of groups I played with in the late 60's through to the late 70's. 

One of the more well known groups was the Edmonton All City band composed of the top musicians in the school system. One of the lesser known but certainly the most unique was the RCMP Centennial marching band where we had to undergo  general military training in Edmonton & Wainwright as members of the PPCLI. All the musicians had long hair back then so we all wore short haircut wigs and hair nets with our military berets and uniform when on parade or performing. 

I often think of Lee when I relate these band stories to my children and friends - he had great patience to put up with us and our antics while giving us the leadership to enable us to always provide excellent performances.

I will cherish those memories forever and thank Lee for all that he did for us and the community.

Like so many, I was another one of those band kids from All-City.  The call and the coaching towards excellence that Lee provided was unlike any other Director. But it was not just about the development and delivery of musical excellence; for those who'd accept the greater opportunity,it was also about character excellence.  I so hope that somehow he got a reward watching me eventually find ways to earn his belief and trust. R. Lee was a one-off...there won't be another. 
Through the experiences of later life, I've come to hold a deep and reverent appreciation for the precious privilege of frequently being close to and supporting those who experience loss like this. You might think that I'd have figured out exactly what to saybut I  haven't...and I won't likely.   In my journey and after all the experience, the only wisdom I  learned, the only thing I find to do that's truly meaningful is to grieve.  There's a sacredness in it. Tears say far more than words. They speak of overwhelming pain...but as well of an unspeakable love... and for any who genuinely seek it, a Glorious Hope!

Mr. Holmes was my band teacher at Queen E in 1980-82. I eventually became a band teach myself and clearly he played an important role in my high school life and subsequent career. He was not only an amazing band teacher but an amazing camper renovator. He always produced excellent results in whatever he tackled. I cherish my high school days and thank Mr. Holmes for providing a wonderful experience for myself and all the band students. He'll always hold a special place in my heart, and I am sure for many others too.
Maurie Fontaine

OBITUARY

Ralph Lee "Lee" Holmes

14 March, 1928 – 31 July, 2016

Memories Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services