Robert "Bob" L. Holmes of Mequon, WI passed away at the Lawlis Family Hospice in Mequon on Tuesday April 24, 2018. He was 84 years old. Bob was born March 7, 1934 in Farmington, IL, the son of William and Julia (nee Handzo) Holmes. After attending local schools, he continued his educational pursuits at Grinnell College in Iowa. Bob embraced all aspects college life, educational and social. He graduated from Grinnell in 1956 with a BA in Literature. While studying at Grinnell he met his first wife, Patricia Carol Guy (deceased). After college, he served his country in the US Navy as a LTJG. His last duty assignment was aboard the USS Terrebonne Parish. He received his Honorable Discharge from the Navy in 1959. Bob then began a successful career at Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co. in Milwaukee, WI. When he retired from NML, Bob was a Regional Director of Agencies. He was a faithful member of Christ Episcopal Church in Whitefish Bay, WI and a 40+ year member of the church choir. In addition to expressing himself artistically through song, he was also a talented wood artist, wood turner, and a serious student of flame work glass beads and marbles. Bob was "Honey Bear" for the past 19 years to his wife Jan Effinger. They were married in Door County, WI on February 20, 1999. Survivors include his wife Jan of Mequon, WI; children John (Rita) Holmes of Stratham, NH, David (Irene Alarcon) Holmes of Mequon, WI and Amy (Jeff) Hargroves of Kansas City, MO; grandchildren Samara, Annika, Jackson and Katie; brothers Harry (Ann) Holmes of Longmont, CO, Richard (Marilyn) Holmes of Lake Bluff, IL and Kenneth (Toni) Holmes of Farmington, IL. Further survived by other relatives and friends. A service celebrating Bob's life will take place at 1 PM on Saturday May 12, 2018 at Christ Episcopal Church, 5655 N. Lake Drive in Whitefish Bay, WI with a reception immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, Memorials in Bob's name may be made to the Christ Church Choir. Online condolences can be forwarded to the family at www.eernissefuneralhome.com. The Eernisse Funeral Home, Michael Schramka Assoc. is assisting the family.