Walter V. Holt, a respected member of the community and devoted family man, passed away on August 21, 2023, at the age of 88. Formerly residing in Glencoe, Illinois, he spent his final years in Vero Beach, Florida. Holt’s life was characterized by deep connections with family and friends, as well as a commitment to education and community service.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Evansville, Indiana, Walter was the son of Walter A. and Eleanor Horton Holt. He formed lasting friendships during his time at Bosse High School, where he met his future wife, Elizabeth Holt. As a teenager, he spent summers in Buffalo, Wyoming, with his grandparents, where he developed a passion for baseball and forged lifelong relationships.
Holt’s educational journey began at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he not only excelled academically but also played baseball and basketball. His achievements earned him the Chicago Tribune’s Big Ten Medal of Honor for exemplary scholarship and athleticism. After graduating, he briefly worked in Milwaukee before moving to California, where he earned his MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business.
Career and Community Involvement
His professional career took off in Chicago, starting at Stein, Roe and Farnham from 1962 to 1982, where he became a partner in 1967. Holt continued to share his love for baseball by throwing batting practice for the Chicago White Sox. In 1982, he joined William Blair as Director of Research, culminating in his retirement in 1995.
Throughout his life, Holt prioritized education and community service. He established the Walter and Elizabeth Holt Scholarship Fund to support members of the University of Wisconsin Men’s Basketball team. He also created an endowment scholarship at Stanford in recognition of his parents’ support during his studies.
Walter was an active participant in local governance, serving as Park District Commissioner from 1975 to 1981, and as President during a portion of that time. He also supported the Boy Scouts, including hosting a troop from Norway during an International Scout Jamboree at his family’s cabin in the Big Horn Mountains.
A Life of Family and Friends
Walter Holt’s devotion to his family was evident in all aspects of his life. He and Elizabeth raised three children: William, Ann Angel, and Amy Oliphant. They enjoyed numerous family gatherings filled with love, laughter, and adventure, often at the Skokie Country Club, where they formed enduring friendships.
Holt’s character was defined by his integrity, generosity, and competitive spirit. He was a passionate golfer and tennis player, always striving for excellence in sports and life. His legacy is one of kindness and courage, leaving a profound impact on his children, grandchildren, and all who knew him.
Walter Holt is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; daughters Ann Angel and Amy Oliphant (Rence); grandchildren Kalli (Ashley), Emily (Alex), William, Erin, Maggie, Holt, and Mack; as well as his sisters Carolyn Andress and Eleanor Dase. He was preceded in death by his son, William Holt.
A memorial service will be held at North Shore United Methodist Church in Glencoe, Illinois, on September 4, 2025, at 16:30. 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.
