Richard Paul Holz

Richard Paul Holz
"Boppie"
July 6, 1944 – March 25, 2025

Richard Paul Holz, 80, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on March 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Known to all as Boppie, he lived a life filled with love, service, and a deep appreciation for family and friends.

Born on July 6, 1944, in New Hampton, Iowa, to Gladys and Paul Holz, Richard proudly served in the United States Air Force for twenty-seven years, demonstrating unwavering dedication to his country. His career took him to many places, but his heart was always with those he loved.

Beyond his military service, Boppie found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved bowling, fishing, and, most of all, spending time with his family and friends. One of his favorite pastimes was sitting on his front porch, waving at passing cars—a small gesture that created quite a following and brought smiles to many. He was also a devoted sports fan, cheering passionately for the Dallas Cowboys, Iowa Hawkeyes, and Atlanta Braves through every season.

Boppie was preceded in death by his soulmate and the love of his life, Margo Mae, as well as his parents and many lifelong friends. While he has left this world, he is undoubtedly reunited with them, sharing laughter and stories once again.

He is survived by his beloved children: Sherry Murphy and her husband, Mark, of Fort Walton Beach, FL; Jackie Newgarden of Gallatin, TN; Maria Chambers and her husband, Edward, of Alden, MN; John David Newgarden and his wife, Tammy, of Wewahitchka, FL; and Scott Holz and his wife, Beth, of Fort Walton Beach, FL. He also leaves behind nineteen grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren, with one due any day; his sister, Gwen, and her husband, Duane, of Des Moines, IA; his brothers-in-law, Donny and his wife, Barb, of Rushford, MN, and John and his wife, Jackie, of Rushford, MN; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on April 2, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. at Davis Watkins Funeral Home in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Special military honors will be rendered in recognition of his service, with burial to follow at Beal Memorial Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to VITAS Hospice and their amazing team for making Boppie’s last days comfortable and filled with care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association or your favorite organization in Boppie’s memory.

Boppie will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His life was a testament to love, loyalty, and the power of a warm smile and a friendly wave.

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