Walter V. Holt, a respected figure in both his personal and professional life, passed away at the age of 88 on August 21, 2023, in Vero Beach, Florida. Formerly of Glencoe, Illinois, Mr. Holt was known for his deep commitment to family, education, and community service. His legacy will be honored during a memorial service at North Shore United Methodist Church in Glencoe on September 4, 2025, at 16:30.
Born in Evansville, Indiana, Walter Holt was the son of Walter A. and Eleanor Horton Holt. Known affectionately as “Bunk,” he met his future wife, Elizabeth, while attending Bosse High School. Their bond, which spanned 68 years, was marked by shared values and mutual support. Walter cherished his friendships formed during those formative years, many of which lasted throughout his life.
During his youth, Holt spent summers in Buffalo, Wyoming, at his grandparents’ home. These experiences fostered a love for the outdoors, competitive sports, and family. Fishing in the Big Horn Mountains and playing in a local baseball league helped shape his character and instilled in him the values of integrity and gratitude.
His academic journey was significant. Holt received an undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he excelled in both baseball and basketball. His athletic achievements earned him the prestigious Chicago Tribune Big Ten Medal of Honor for outstanding scholarship and athletic prowess.
After completing his degree, he worked for M&I Bank in Milwaukee from 1958 to 1960, where he continued to pursue athletics, playing local baseball and throwing batting practice for the Milwaukee Braves. In 1960, Walter and Elizabeth welcomed their first child, William, before moving to California, where he earned an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business. Their daughter Ann was born in 1961.
Recognizing the value of education, Holt established the Walter and Elizabeth Holt Scholarship Fund, which awards scholarships to members of the University of Wisconsin Men’s Basketball team. He also created an endowment scholarship fund at Stanford in gratitude for the support his parents provided during his studies.
Following his graduation from Stanford, the Holt family settled in Chicago. From 1962 to 1982, Mr. Holt worked as an analyst at Stein, Roe and Farnham, becoming a partner in 1967. He also threw batting practice for the Chicago White Sox during this time, showcasing his love for baseball.
In 1982, he joined William Blair as Director of Research and later transitioned to the Investment Management department. Holt retired in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and integrity. The family eventually moved to Winnetka, where they welcomed their third child, Amy, in 1970.
Walter Holt was actively engaged in his community, serving as Park District Commissioner from 1975 to 1981 and as President from 1979 to 1981. He also supported the Boy Scouts, helping to host a troop from Norway during an International Scout Jamboree at the family cabin in the Big Horn Mountains.
The couple joined Skokie Country Club in 1969, where they forged lasting friendships and celebrated life’s milestones together. Mr. Holt participated in various sports, especially golf and tennis, and was known for his competitive spirit.
Walter Holt’s dedication to family, friends, and community left a profound impact on those around him. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; daughters Ann Angel and Amy Oliphant (Rence); and several grandchildren, including Kalli, Emily, William, Erin, Maggie, Holt, and Mack. He was preceded in death by his son, William Holt.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Bill Holt Pediatric and Adolescent HIV Clinic at Phoenix Children’s Hospital or the Skokie Educational Foundation. For more information, visit donnellanfuneral.com or call 847-675-1990.