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Hugh E.
"Buzz" Holzknecht
May 11, 1934 — Jun 14, 2025
Farmington Hills
Hugh E. "Buzz" Holzknecht, age 91, of Farmington, entered eternal life on June 14, 2025, at Courtyard Manor of Farmington Hills.
Buzz was born on May 11, 1934, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, to the late Norbert and Myrtle (Krohn) Holzknecht. In 1943, the family moved to St. Cloud, where Buzz graduated from Cathedral High School in 1952 and went on to earn a B.S. in Accounting and Business from St. John's University in 1956.
Following college, Buzz proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Corporal while stationed at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California.
On July 13, 1957, Buzz married the love of his life, Florence "Flo," at Holy Angels Catholic Church in St. Cloud, beginning a marriage filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Buzz's professional career included time at Kaiser Aluminum before becoming part-owner of Systems Four.
Buzz lived life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He was an avid golfer, hunter, skier, boater, water skier, camper, and traveler. His passion for skiing led him to become a professional ski instructor and an active member of the Kandahar Ski Club. He and Flo traveled extensively, visiting all 50 states and numerous countries around the world.
Buzz was a lifelong member of several organizations that reflected his values and interests, including the Twin Beach Country Club, the Elks Club, the Knights of Columbus, and the Goodfellows.
Buzz is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Flo; devoted children, Judy (Mike) Hansen, Jan (Craig) Pickard, and Joel (Lisa) Holzknecht; cherished grandchildren, Erica (Luke) Gleason, Courtney (Cory) Kominek, Chelsey (Chris) Terry, Lauren (Paul) Dadd, Kim (Lance) Holsbeke and Scott (David) Holzknecht; dearly loved great-grandchildren, Connor, Carson and Carly Kominek, Amelia and Hamish Gleason, and Brooks Terry; as well as a host of friends.
Family and friends may gather for visiting hours at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in Downtown Farmington on Thursday, June 19, from 3-8 pm, with a 7 pm Rosary.
Buzz's funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday afternoon, June 20, 12:30 pm (in state 12 pm) at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 23615 Power Road, Farmington.
Interment is planned for Farmington's historic Oakwood Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial tributes are kindly suggested to Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church or the charity of one's choice.
Buzz will be remembered for his zest for life, devotion to family, and unwavering spirit of adventure.
Thursday
Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home
3:00 - 8:00 pm
Thursday
The Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home
Starts at 7:00 pm
Friday
Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church
Starts at 12:30 pm
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