David "Dave" Holder

David “Dave” Holder

July 4, 1944 – July 21, 2019

David “Dave” Holder, born on July 4, 1944 in Ashville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2019 at his home in Horseshoe Bay, Texas.  After a courageous battle with cancer, but never missing a beat to put others first, especially his family, Dave is at peace.  

Son of William E. Holder and Rebecca J. Worthen Holder, Dave grew up in Ashville, North Carolina where he learned to play tennis.  This probably set the stage for the love of the game; as a young player Dave was invited to play in Wimbledon and the US Open.  

The family moved to Maryland when Dave was a teenager, but he always considered Ashville his home. Over the years, Dave worked for many automotive dealerships and consulting companies before he founded Consultants Advertising Retail Sales, Inc. in 1988.  During his career, he and his company were recognized for taking automotive dealerships to a greater level of profitability through marketing, sales and sales management training.  

On Oct. 28, 1988, Dave married the love of life, Holly Wolfer Holder.  He and Holly recently celebrated their 30th anniversary having married in Cincinnati, Ohio.  The two enjoyed many great adventures and memories. Holly best remembers him for being a good father to their son Michael David Holder.

Dave retired 10 years ago and dedicated his time to the Roddick Youth Tennis Foundation where he was able to touch the lives of many children and grow the game of tennis.  During this time, he also served as tennis director for the USTA-sanctioned Roddick Tennis Series for junior players.  

Dave is survived by his wife, Holly; son, Michael; and sister, Laura (Amy) Morrow.  He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Gerald Holder, Larry Holder, Donald Holder; and sister, Rebecca LeBrun.  

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Dave Holder Memorial Tennis Fund, c/o City of Granite Shoals, 2221 North Phillips Ranch Road, Granite Shoals, Texas 78654.

There will not be a formal memorial service, just one last tennis match to be determined.