OBITUARY
Holden Jakob Hildebrand
September 25, 2004 – February 13, 2021
Holden Jakob Hildebrand was born in the early morning hours of September 25, 2004 at Victoria General Hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He is the first-born son to Colin and Haily and protective big brother to Finn.
Holden and his brother were instantly best friends. Holden was so excited at having a little brother that he stared at him constantly, so preoccupied with Finn that he barely ate for two weeks after he came home from the hospital. Every morning his parents would find that Holden climbed into Finn’s crib and the two would be holding hands, smiling and laughing. Growing up they were always together playing hockey, catching frogs or playing dress up. Holden loved to dress up in costumes and quite often would become obsessed with living out that fantasy until he was completely done with it, then he would move onto something else.
The family started out in St. Norbert, after 4 years moved to Garden City so that the family could spend more time together as both parents worked in the River East community. He attended elementary at Forrest Park School, where he became fast friends with fellow students. Holden was a shy boy and was drawn to kids that would take him under their wing. In elementary, he struggled through class work but always worked hard to persevere. It was later discovered that he was struggling with ADHD and other learning challenges. Holden developed a love for hockey in kindergarten and begged his parents to sign him up. The following year he started in Timbits. He quickly learned to skate and enjoyed his ever evolving skills. He played various positions over the next 8 years, with his father sometimes assisting with coaching. He had a keen hockey sense with the goal of teamwork over individual effort. Ice hockey transitioned into ball hockey, with his father assisting to coach the team, they won the city championship.
He went on to HC Avery for middle school, where friendships shifted and he often felt unsure of himself. By mid-grade 8, he was struggling to find his place which drew him into questionable friendships and making choices he regretted. He transferred to Leila North after a difficult first term and felt like he quickly fit in. His interests blossomed; he began taking guitar lessons through School of Rock, becoming a member of the band. He had a natural gift for music and enjoyed learning to play music from his favourite band at the time, Green Day. He performed in four concerts in the next year, learning numerous songs for each concert. He also became interested in learning jiu jitsu. He started taking classes with a coworker of his father’s who became a mentor to him. It was a place where he truly finally felt like he belonged. Tragically, shortly after starting classes his mentor suddenly passed away. This left him at a loss and looking for a place to fit in once again.
He started high school at Maples Collegiate; he quickly became overwhelmed with the size of the school and having to start new at making friends. He struggled to find acceptance and tried so hard to fit in. The struggles resulted in a deterioration in his mental health. The family moved to the Island Lakes community to help him get a new start. He started school at JH Bruns in the spring of 2019. The amazing staff worked to make him feel welcome and safe. He could not shake his struggles and lost interest in everything he held so dearly. On Saturday February 13, 2021, Holden succumbed to his sorrows.
Holden was a loving caring young man. He was proud of his ability to take care of others. He loved taking care of his family, cooking food and he had a sense of needing to protect them and keep them safe. He was intelligent and creative, often investing so much time and energy into something that he took an interest in. From a young age, Holden sought out adventures. He would insist on taking his brother out to find insects or convince him to play out some make believe. Holden talked about one day becoming a doctor or electrician. He had started to apply for jobs and was looking forward to taking driver’s education.
Holden loved his pets, his dog Lucy and his cats, Puddin, Kadee, and Kit. He would sleep with one or all of them nightly.
He will be inconsolably missed by his parents, Haily and Colin; his brother Finn; grandparents, Jack, Laura, Dave, Dorothy; his aunties and uncles, Shawna (Joe), Isaiah, Cheryl (Jess); cousins Layne, Aiden, Hendrix, Clementine, Piper, and Julian; and many more family and friends. He was predeceased by great-grandparents, Adelore, Mathilda, Robert and Eva, Anne and Henry, Jake, Helen and Molly
Donations in his name may be made to Inspire Community Outreach.
His family would like to thank the firefighters, paramedics and police officers who cared for the family in a time of need. We would especially like to thank Officer Lee for the warmth and compassion she provided in our darkest hour, your kindness will never be forgotten.
Due to Covid-19 restriction you are invited to join us virtually on Monday February 22, 2021 at 2:30pm by clicking the link on the Join Livestream Link in the services tab below.
Services
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Livestreamed Funeral Services
Monday, February 22, 2021
Memories
Holden Jakob Hildebrand
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYMike Reis
March 5, 2021
Holden was a true Rock Star at heart. He loved performing and was an energetic member of our band. He was passionate about playing guitar and his stage presence showed it.
It was with great sadness that we heard of his passing. Our thoughts and prayers from the entire SOR community are with the Hildebrand family.
Ethan Dawson
February 26, 2021
Holden,
Unfortunately I was only able to meet you a couple times before your passing but from those few times, we had a blast. Street hockey, swimming, water slides, many more great memories. I wish we got closer and had a chance to hang out. My deepest condolences to your family and friends
Fly high brother♥️🕊
Susan Quinn
February 23, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of this tragic loss and my heart aches for each member of your family. Holden was a wonderful student at Forest Park and we were all shocked to hear of his passing. We will always remember Holden in our own special way.
Kathleen Lukas
February 23, 2021
I was heartbroken to hear of Holden’s death. I can’t even imagine the pain you are going through, losing a child/brother/grandson...
I was Holden’s gym teacher at Forest Park School for his entire time there. I just remember Holden as a sweet, kind, respectful, very athletic student.
My condolences to the entire family.
Dawn Kraft
February 22, 2021
Deepest sympathy to the family, thoughts and prayers to all
Joel Kehler& Family
February 22, 2021
To the Hildebrand Family. We are very sorry for your loss. I wish we could have known Holden better. What a talented and gifted young man. Our thoughts are prayers are with you all at this difficult time. Colin and Hailey and especially, Finn, please know that we are here for you and although it will be a very hard road, you have many angels helping you along the way. You will get through this trying season with help of those who love you. Joel, Bonnie & Family
Sue Hiebert Peters
February 22, 2021
To all of Holden’s family, we offer our heartfelt condolences.
Ty Lucero-Lippens
February 22, 2021
I am truly sorry for your loss, Holden was a good friend to me and same thing to him during middle school and hockey. He was a great friend to me when we were still around eachother and no matter what we had done or not, we still would be good buds. I am really sorry for your loss and I will miss you my friend, Holden.
Shirley Simpson Flamand
February 22, 2021
Dear Colin, Hailey and Finn,
we have you in our hearts and in our prayers. To all who knew and loved Holden, even for just a little while, we are truly blessed.
Love, Aunty Shirley and family.
Ben & Henri Hiebert
February 22, 2021
Colin, Haily & Finn, Dave & Dorothy, Cheryl & Jess our hearts are heavy with the passing of Holden! Our heart felt condolences to you all in this very difficult time!! Please know we have been Praying 🙏🙏 for you all and we will continue!!
Barbara Belhumeur
February 22, 2021
To Cousin Hailey, Collin, And Fin
My Deepest Sympathy
Your sorrow is felt through the provinces and beyond
Much love to you all
Nina Caplette
February 21, 2021
Dear Colin, Haily, Finn, Dorothy, and Dave
My heart is broken to hear of Holden’s passing. From those first haircuts, which he really didn’t like, until I gave him the water bottle. He loved to spritz me as I cut his hair. He laughed while I tried to cut quickly, and accurately! You grew into a Lovely, Talented young Man. Much Love to All. Rest in Peace Sweetheart.
Aunty Nina, and Larry❤️❤️
Theresa Lomas
February 21, 2021
To Haily, Colin and Finn
Extending our deepest condolences to you during this difficult time. We were shocked and saddened to hear that Holden was taken from you so soon and remember Holden as a very kind friend to Sam, whether at the Forest Park before and after school program, playing ball hockey and mini sticks, or catching frogs behind your house.
Though we can’t even imagine what you’re going through, we hope you can get some solace from the lovely memories about Holden shared on this page.
With deepest sympathy,
Theresa, Steve and Sam Lomas
Cindy Kostur
February 20, 2021
Colin, Haily and Finn,
Our deepest condolences on the loss of your son/brother. May he rest in peace.
The Kostur/Martin family
(J.H. Bruns)
Eduardo Morales
February 19, 2021
Colin and family,
My deepest condolences, may you find peace and strength to endure these difficult times. God bless you all.
The upholstery team sends their love and support.
Asia Moneyas
February 19, 2021
Rip Holden love you I remember all the fun memories with you you will never be forgotten rest easy💙🕊
Bobbi & Ken Davie
February 19, 2021
Dear Cousin Hailey, Colin & Finn,
So shocked and saddened were we to hear of your unimaginable loss. We pray that you will receive God’s peace and His comfort and feel the love and prayers of so many friends and family. Even though we haven’t seen each other in so long our hearts are still broken for you. It is clear to see from all of the messages here how very much Holden touched people and what a special young man he was. Hang on to that and all the good he brought to this life in the short time this world was blessed to know him.
Much love,
Bobbi, Ken & family
Much
Rina Lischka
February 19, 2021
Colin, Hailey and Finn,
So deeply sorry you have to go through a heartbreak like this. We can only imagine how difficult this is for you. We have fond memories of our boys going to school together, birthday parties, and just being boys, playing outside.
You are in our thoughts and we pray that you will somehow find peace and comfort with each other and your families
Rina, Randy and Matthew Lischka
May peace be with you Holden !!
Jacqueline Schroeder
February 19, 2021
So Sorry for Your Loss...
Praying for the HOLY SPIRIT to Lift Up You and Your Family at this Very Sad Time....🙏🙏💖
Amanda Palylyk
February 19, 2021
Dear Colin and Family;
I am so very sorry for your loss.
I did not know Holden, however I wanted to send my condolences as a fellow co-worker of Colin's.
As a mother of a child with ADHD, this hits home for me.
My thoughts are with you and your family at this time.
Amanda P.
Brad Wilson
February 19, 2021
Colin, Hailey and Finn,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to your family from mine.
Being on team Dad, I can't begin to imagine what you are going through at this time.
Take care of each other and know that we are all thinking of you.
Delores Margerison
February 19, 2021
Colin, Hailey, and Finn - I am so very sorry to hear of your loss of Holden. My thoughts are prayers are with you, and may the Lord give each of you strength as you remember all the great times you all shared with Holden. May God's peace surround you as a family.
Love Delores (your co-worker).
Kelly-Ann Stevenson
February 19, 2021
My deepest sympathies to Holden's family and to his friends. There are no words for such an unimaginable loss. You’re in my thoughts & prayers.
Janessa Pewean
February 19, 2021
My condolences to your family, Holden would always talk about his family and how much he loved them. I was a good friend of his. He was one of my true best friends. Your son was very sweet and kind.
❣️It’s an old picture but I will always remember you as this boy I met you as. You will be missed.
Jen Wentland
February 18, 2021
Colin, Hailey, and Finn
I worked closely with Holden at Bruns for most of last year.
Even when he had very little to say he would light up anytime he talked about Finn. I know his brother meant the world to him and he wanted the best for him.
My favourite memory is that I actually got to see him last week at school. Our schedules where different this year. We smiled through our masks and I told him how happy I was to see him and I missed him and he said he was good and missed me too. I wish we could have talked longer.
He was a really great kid from a great family and I miss him very much.
Rachel & Franklin Dueck
February 18, 2021
Dear Colin Hailey and Finn,
Holden was a precious, sensitive and kind boy. I have so many memories spending his younger years at home with him and Finn when Travis and I would come visit. He was active, playful and had such a great heart.
When I heard the news the world stopped for a minute. Our hearts are broken as a young boy was taken too soon. Holden will be forever remembered and honoured and never forgotten.
We send our condolences, love and warmest hugs to you three as you navigate through this. We are one phone call or text away.
Love you guys xo
Will Lewin
February 18, 2021
I am so sorry for your loss Colin and Haily, and Finn.
Holden was a good friend of mine, who had some struggles but was trying his best to get through them. He always put his friends before himself. He truly was selfless, kind and had a big heart.
He always told me how much I meant to him and that he’d always have my back, he was a genuine person who’d do anything for his friends.
It’s been a hard week since I found out about Holden, I can’t imagine how it’s been for you’re family I’m so sorry and I give you my deepest condolences, and have been praying for your family.
Rest in paradise Holden
Cathy Hawcroft
February 18, 2021
Haily,Colin & Finn
Please accept my heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Wishing you peace and strength during this difficult time.
Bryan Burron
February 18, 2021
Colin, Haily, and Finn,
Words cannot describe the sorrow I feel for you all. Please cherish the good memories and wipe away the bad.
Lean on each other, your families, and friends, and you will get through this together.
My and Bonnie's deepest, most sincere condolences...
Bryan
Tom Rozwadowski
February 18, 2021
Dear Haily, Colin and Finn,
We are heart broken to hear of Holden’s passing.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Rozwadowski family
Melanie Downing
February 18, 2021
Our Sincere Condolences Colin, Haily and Finn during these hard times. Cherish all the fond memories and hold them close to your hearts.
Sending you all prayers and hugs.
Rest in Peace Holden
Megan Hildebrand
February 18, 2021
My prayers and condolences to your family, rest in peace Holden
Robyn Flamand
February 18, 2021
My condolences to my cousins Haily, Colin and Finn. Words cannot express my sorrow for you all, I wish we knew him better. I’d like to keep in touch better, life is too short and I love my family. My heart goes out to you all, it’s something unimaginable. I love you all! ♥️🙏🏽
Crystal Favell
February 18, 2021
Kailey and Holden went to fp and Avery together. He would come over and jump on the trampoline. They were close friends.
Holdens laugh was contagious.
Sending our deepest condolences, prayers and love to Holdens Parents, his brother Finn and his whole family.
-From the Laurin family.
Rip Sweet Holden 🌹❤️
Kenny Gionet
February 18, 2021
My condolences Colin and family thinking of you at this time!! Much love
Kristin Cusson
February 18, 2021
Colin, Haily and Finn,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on this tremendous loss to your family.
The Cusson family
(St. Boniface Seals/J.H.Bruns)
Kim Balazovic
February 17, 2021
Holden was such a sweet boy. Brooklyn and Madi have such wonderful memories of him and Finn. Street hockey, swimming, and bike rides to the park will never be forgotten. Fly high Holden ❤️
Magda Bodnik
February 17, 2021
Dear Haily, Colin and Finn,
I am heart broken to hear of Holden’s passing.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
May he Rest In Peace and comfort.
Sabrina Ferreira
February 17, 2021
My Condolences ❤️
He was a great kid with a sense of humour loved seeing him he will be missed ! You will forever be remembered and loved
RIP Holden
Dawn Armstrong
February 17, 2021
Collin, Hailey, Finn.
Our family is truly sadden for this loss..💔 ..🥺 Rest In Peace Holden. Much love to all of you..❤️
Jordan Laidlaw
February 17, 2021
I was the music teacher at Forest Park School, and taught both Holden and his brother Finn. My sincerest condolences to the family, utterly heartbreaking. I remember Holden to be quite shy, but very engaged in ukulele (and seemingly later into guitar). Holden touched many lives, we are all tremendously saddened at his passing.
Sydney M.
February 17, 2021
I worked with him part of a summer at Rock it Out summer band camp. He was so sweet and spunky and everyone (staff and other campers) just adored him. He was so enthusiastic about his guitarin' and was such a rock star. My condolences to his family.
Miles MacFarlane
February 17, 2021
Unspeakably sad news... I was Holden's grade 8 homeroom teacher at Leila North and admired how he embraced the new community and the opportunities available there. He had a lovely smile.
May you find some small comfort in the remembrances and memories shared by family and friends in the time ahead. With love...
Melanie Morden
February 17, 2021
Haily, Colin, Finn and family,
My heart is heavy as I read about Holden's life and struggles. I hope you can find comfort knowing his struggles are over and he is at peace. Cherish the many fond memories he has left behind. Find strength in each other in the days ahead to celebrate his short but beautiful life. He has touched the hearts of many. Thinking of you all, at this very difficult time. Rest easy Holden.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Melanie, Marty, Madisyn, Maddux, and Mikyla Morden
Sophia Ferreira
February 17, 2021
Haily, Colin and Finn.
My deepest condolences to you guys during this dark time. Such a beautiful boy. May he be in peaceful comfort.
Teanna Bibeau
February 17, 2021
Even though me and Holden weren’t that close I knew he was always there for me no matter what
My favourite memory is thanksgiving I’m pretty sure Holden noticed that I was nervous so he came and started talking to me making me feel like I fit in
From this day on I will cherish my birthday more then ever cause I know that Holden’s is the day right after
Sending all my prayers to his family
fly high Holden I’ll miss you
Heather Oliver
February 17, 2021
Dear Colin, Haily and Finn,
I was so very sorry to hear the sad news of Holden’s passing. It seems like yesterday when we first met each other back in my Kindergarten class. Holden was a shy, sweet boy that loved exploring. Some of the strongest friendships he made were in those early days at Forest Park School. May cherished memories bring you peace and comfort in the days ahead. Rest In Peace Holden.
My deepest condolences,
Heather Oliver
Monty Draper
February 17, 2021
Holden, you were like my brother I’m glad we got closer this summer and had lots of great memories together. glad we met bro , I’ll miss you .
rest easy ❤️🕊
Preston Grand
February 17, 2021
I remember Holdens first day at Leila, we Immediately clicked off and were friends ever since. I would have considered Holden my best friend at the time. As time drew us apart I never forgot about you. I remember the days of walking too far and just being kids. I still regret not seeing you this last past saturday.
Brothers for Life.
Makaylah Brasseur
February 17, 2021
We met at bandcamp
We spent a lot of time together
Such a kind caring soul
So Eager to make people laugh
Rest easy Holden
Love you lots 💔
Makaylah Brasseur
February 17, 2021
we met at band camp.
We spent a lot of time together.
Such a kind caring soul.
Always eager to make people laugh.
Rest easy Holden
Love you lots 💔
Kara Merasty
February 17, 2021
also my deepest condolences to his family and other friends, rest easy buddy💕
Kara Merasty
February 17, 2021
Holden you were my bestfriend in grade 8. And we have been good friends ever since. I always had fun when I was around you. I valued our friendship so much and I could never ask for a better friend. And when you moved we lost touch but we were still good friends and I’ll never forget the time you got me a cat. A beautiful black cat and I named him Leo. So crazy how you did that for me. I’ll never forget you or our friendship, your missed dearly.
Shauna Little-Cody
February 17, 2021
Haily, Colin, Finn and Family,
Our hearts break for yours. We are so, so sorry for your tremendous loss. May you find some comfort in the many memories you hold dear to your hearts and the many loving arms that surround you all. Our thoughts, prayers and tight hugs.
Love Shauna, Jason and boys 💛
Melanie Gosselin
February 17, 2021
Holden you were like a brother 2 me u and Finn are like bros to me I’m never gonna forget our special times together never forget your laugh and your smile and they way you said “hi Melanie” I’m never gonna forget you I’m sorry I wasn’t there for u for a year to 2 I thought I would have time for u 2 forgive me but I will do everything to protect and be there for Finn ❤️❤️ I’ll miss you Holden
Veronica Ferreira
February 17, 2021
My deepest condolences too you all he was a sweet kid would never forget who he is rest easy Holden
Charlene Gratton
February 17, 2021
Colin, Haily and Finn,
My deepest sympathies to you on the passing of Holden. He offered the world so much and will be missed by everyone.