Joseph E. Holmes, 88, of Ivins, Utah, died peacefully of natural causes at his home early Monday morning March 30, 2009. He was born on July 17, 1920 in Paradise, Utah, to William H. and Clarissa Pearce Holmes. He was married to Kathleen Swartz Holmes in July of 1942. His wife of 38 years passed away July 25, 1980. Mr. Holmes grew up in Hyrum, Utah, where he graduated from Cache Valley High School. He worked for the United States Air Force as a civilian in quality control. He retired in 1975 to Avon, Utah, where he was active in civic affairs, and was instrumental in restoring the Avon Cemetery and gaining public funding for its maintenance. After the death of his wife, Kathleen, he relocated to the St. George area, eventually buying a home in Ivins, Utah. Mr. Holmes is survived by his sisters, Lorna and Bernice; and his four children, JoAnne Elmore, Joseph Richard Holmes, Cheryl Stevens and Lori Holmes; nine grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. He will also be sorely missed by his faithful dog Charlie. A viewing will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 4, at Allen-Hall Mortuary, 34 E. Center in Logan, Utah. A graveside service and interment will follow at 11 a.m. at the Avon, Utah Cemetery.