Holly Nicole Holderbaum
Dec. 4, 1978 - Feb. 25, 2024
It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of Holly Holderbaum. Holly was a beloved daughter, sister, niece, cousin, aunt, and friend. Holly is survived by her parents, Rodney and Linda Holderbaum of Dover, DE, two sisters, Michelle Baldwin and spouse, Bobby of Palm Harbor, FL and Kristen Holderbaum-Huston and spouse Eric of Magnolia, DE, and her brother, Scott Holderbaum of Oldsmar, FL along with three beloved nieces and a nephew.
Growing up in Dover, DE, Holly was known to her parents as a kind-hearted and loving child with a generous spirit. She exuded tolerance and thoughtfulness, truly embodying the values of her close-knit family. Every summer was spent at the Delaware Beaches, creating cherished memories with her siblings and cousins. Regular visits to Clearwater, FL allowed Holly to live freely in the ocean and on the sand, further nurturing her love for the outdoors. Whether playing sports or games, she and her loved ones always found joy in spending time outside. Teachers praised her as an exceptional student, while coaches recognized her as a talented athlete.
Holly graduated from Caesar Rodney High School in 1996 and was an Air Force JROTC member. Holly was a lifelong learner, full of intelligence, wit, and a phenomenal athlete. Having participated in collegiate Softball with Del Tech and in adult softball leagues, Holly began playing organized sports beginning with baseball for Camden Wyoming Little League around 6 years old because they did not have softball. Prior to CWLL implementing a softball league, she played softball for Kent County. Holly also played basketball for Caesar Rodney Junior High.
Holly lettered in high school softball, was team captain her senior year, earned a Henlopen All-Conference honorable mention and closed out her senior season playing on the Delaware High School Blue and Gold softball team. At DelTech, Holly was on the Fall 2001-Spring 2002 and Fall 2002 - Spring 2003 teams where they were NJCAA Region 19 Champs in 2002 and 2003. The team was also District A champs in 2003 and earned a trip to the 2003 College World Series in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Holly was named first team all-region in 2002 and 2003, as well as the 2003 Tournament MVP. Quoted from her Coach, Michelle West, "She was a star, and I knew it the very first time I walked out on the field with her!".
A distinguished veteran, Holly proudly served in the United States Army National Guard, fulfilling two dedicated service commitments. Holly joined the Delaware Army National Guard as a Private First Class, December 11, 2000, with 153rd Military Police, Delaware City, DE. She was promoted to Specialist on July 1, 2002, and briefly served as a Non-Career Recruiter with DEARNG after completing Recruiting and Retention training in 2004. Specialist Holderbaum remained with 153rd until her Honorable Discharge on December 10, 2006.
On August 18, 2008, Spc. Holderbaum re-enlisted with the Florida Army National Guard with a second assignment to CO A S&T 53rd BSB, in Pinellas Park, FL (Supply & Transportation). On May 11, 2009, she was promoted to Sergeant and later cross-leveled to her third assignment in Cavalry with Alpha Co, Troop 1-153rd Cavalry Unit. Sgt. Holly Holderbaum deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Stationed at Camp Buehring, Kuwait with her Cavalry Unit in 2010 where the unit ran Khabari Crossing on the Iraqi Border for just under a year. Sgt. Holderbaum's Military Occupational Skills were 31B Military Police and 88M Motor Transport Operator. Sergeant Holderbaum was honorably discharged on August 17, 2014, marking the culmination of 12 years of dedicated service to the United States Army.
Holly's radiant smile had the power to illuminate even the darkest of rooms. Her infectious sense of fun could keep us laughing for hours on end, yet she also possessed a serene and loving side that was truly endearing. Holly possessed the unique ability of empathy for all and an undeniable passion for animals. She found solace and joy in the great outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of nature, and most of all the serenity of a beach with ocean waves crashing. Above all, Holly's unwavering dedication to her family and friends was steadfast, always ready to offer love and support in abundance. Holly was truly a beautiful soul and we are all blessed to have known her and her love.
Visitation will be held beginning at 7 PM followed by Funeral services at 8PM, Friday, March 8, 2024, at Torbert Funeral Chapel South, 1145 E. Lebanon Road (Rt. 10)., Dover.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made in Holly's name with the SPCA or The Beagle Freedom Project.
For those unable to attend the funeral service there will be a livestream on www.torbertfuneral.com, it can be found under the "Upcoming Live Streams" tab and viewed by clicking on her name.
Letters of condolence may be sent, and guest book signed at www.torbertfuneral.com