Robert “Bobby” S. Holmes, 61, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, surrounded by his loving family, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born on January 1, 1965, in La Porte to Robert E. Holmes & Gail (Mounce) Holmes. Bob was a devoted father, coach, teacher, and friend whose impact stretched far beyond the classroom and football field.
He is survived by his mother, Gail Holmes; his three children, Madelyn, Max, and Brock Holmes; the love of his life, Donna S. Holmes, whom he married on February 23, 2026; his brother, Brian Holmes; his sister, Rena Holmes Martin; and his beloved niece and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert E. Holmes.
Bob graduated from La Porte High School in 1983 before attending Ball State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in business in 1989. He began his teaching career at South Central Junior-Senior High School as a business teacher and quickly discovered his passion for coaching football.
Over the course of 38 years in education and 30 years of coaching, Bob mentored countless students and athletes at South Central, Michigan City High School, Bremen High School, and La Porte High School – where he concluded his coaching career. Throughout the years, he found great success on the field, earned multiple Coach of the Year honors, and built teams that reflected the toughness, determination, and grit he carried throughout his own life. Football was more than a game to Bob – it was where he built lifelong relationships and left a lasting mark on every community he served.
Outside of coaching and teaching, Bob loved just about every sport there was. He could usually be found watching a game, golfing, fishing on his boat, or spending time with friends and family. He loved telling stories, giving people a hard time, and keeping everyone on their toes.
A memorial gathering will be held on Thursday, May 21, from 4:00-8:00 PM at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services in La Porte. A memorial service will be held at the funeral home on Friday morning, May 22, at 11:00 AM. Burial of cremated remains will immediately follow at Pine Lake Cemetery in La Porte.
Bob will be remembered for the way he lived—with strength, heart, and an unwavering commitment to the people around him. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or among family and friends, he gave his time, his guidance, and his whole self without hesitation. His legacy is carried on in the lives he shaped, the lessons he taught, and the love he so freely gave. Though he will be deeply missed, Bob’s spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him, reminding them to live with passion, loyalty, and a true appreciation for the moments that matter most.