In loving memory of Clarence Holt: 1944-2022

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Clarence Lynn Holt (Butch) of Ariel, Washington, passed away at his home on April 12, 2022. He was born on Oct. 25, 1944 in Polson, Montana to Cecil and Virginia (Moerke) Holt. The family moved frequently to follow his father’s work. He lived in the Dalles while his father worked on the Dalles dam among other places. At 13 years old, he moved to Montana and worked on his uncle’s hay ranch. He attributed his strong work ethic to that experience. At 17 years old, he met and married the love of his life Wilma (Jo) Walker. She had two children to whom he became a great father. The couple welcomed a son four years later. Butch served in the U.S. Coast Guard for four years. Butch spent most of his adult life working in construction. He was the inspiration for several truss plants (locally and in Hawaii), most notably Ariel Truss Company, which he started from scratch with his sons in 1984. He had a sharp mind for business and was a very intense man. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and was a car enthusiast. His family was very important to him. Although he lived a rambunctious life, he had a very big heart. He was a beloved “papa” to many grandkids and great grandkids. He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Jo of 59 years; sons Charles J Holt (Irma) and Clarence L Holt II (Judy); daughter Diana (Bill) Morrison; sisters Cecile Fulton, Shelly Olheiser and Kim Reed; and brother Dale Holt. 

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on June 11, 2022, at Ariel Truss, 618 NW 139th St., Vancouver, Washington 98685.