Darryl Gene Holiday, 77, of Topeka, passed peacefully from this life into the arms of the Lord on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Darryl was born in Pontiac, Michigan, the son of Clifford and Mary Ellen Holiday. He graduated from Lake Orion High School and went on to serve in the United States Army as a mechanic.
After an honorable discharge from the United States Army, Darryl spent a successful career, from which he retired, in automobile manufacturing as a Tool Profiling Machine Set Up Operator and as a Team Leader in the General Motors Tonawanda Engine Plant in Tonawanda, New York.
In addition to being a proud veteran, Darryl was a humble, loyal and kindhearted man who enjoyed sharing his extensive knowledge of technology with others as well as spending many dedicated hours volunteering weekly at his church, The Apostolic Church of Topeka. Darryl loved to cook and over the years, made and shared many a delicious meal with his family and friends. He will go down in family history for his infamous buttermilk pies that he would often bring to holiday dinners. “Uncle D”, as he was affectionately called, also made delicious espresso drinks that were way better than any coffee shop in town. Darryl was involved in Boy Scouts of America and mentored many young men over the years. A constant source of joy to Darryl, was time spent with his rescue dog, Paul, a faithful and loving companion to him until the end of his life journey. Uncle D enjoyed telling people that his dog’s name used to be Saul but then he turned his life around and now his name was Paul. They spent many loyal years together and were the best of friends to each other.
Darryl is survived by his son, Jeremy Holiday (Julie) of Macomb, Michigan; four sisters, Sandra (Duke) Miracle of Clarkston, Michigan, Carol Noriega (twin sister) of Topeka, Kansas, Barbara Stockwell of Valley Center, Kansas and Lori (Bryan) Cremer of Ortonville, Michigan. Darryl is also survived by his grandchildren: Andrew and Josh Holiday; nieces, many nieces, nephews and very importantly, his faithful rescue companion, Paul.
Darryl was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Mary Ellen Holiday; a brother, Michael Holiday, and his stepson, Michael D. Cowley.
A Celebration of Darryl's Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 17, 2025 at The Apostolic Church, 2313 SE 29th St., Topeka, Kansas 66605. Private inurnment will take place in Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, Kansas at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 S.W. 21st St., Topeka, Kansas 66604 to help other rescue animals in need of a good home.
Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave. is assisting the family with service arrangements.
To leave the family a special message, please select the guestbook entries area shown below.
Thursday, April 17, 2025
10:00 - 11:00 am (Central time)
The Apostolic Church
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Starts at 11:00 am (Central time)
The Apostolic Church
Visits: 330
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors