James Armstrong Holtvedt, Jr., age 63, a resident of Washington, N.C., lived a vibrant down-to-earth life from June 15, 1952 through December 22, 2015. Jim leaves behind his three children, Kristen Holtvedt Allen, her husband Barry Allen, James Jared Holtvedt (Jed), his wife Amy Tyree Holtvedt, Jonathan Collins Holtvedt, his fiancée Erin Hill, as well as his first wife, Susie Preble, their mother. He shared thirteen wonderful years with his great love Anna Stelle Holtvedt, the last five years, as husband and wife, and was stepfather to her sons, Bradley Joseph Thompson and Robert Frank Thompson, who all survive. Jim remains a cherished brother of Beth Holtvedt Wilson, her husband Gary Wilson, Andy Holtvedt, his wife Eileen Holtvedt and Matt Collins Holtvedt, his wife Jamie Holtvedt. He was a playful, adored “Pops” to grandchildren, Waylon Holtvedt, Ryder Holtvedt and Lily Allen. His love, compassion and fun will be missed, as well, by cousins, relatives, neighbors and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Armstrong Holtvedt, Sr. and Charlotte Holtvedt.
Jim grew up primarily in Connecticut with stints living in Japan and Paris as a child. As an adult he lived with his family in various states in New England before moving everyone to North Carolina in 1993. Over time, he worked in landscaping, carpentry and professional sales; he earned a double Masters in vocational and substance abuse counseling, created a home and work environment modification company dealing with catastrophic injury, Worker’s Compensation cases, often appeared in court as an expert in this field, and lastly, worked for Howard Transportation as a flat-bed, over-the-road, truck driver. He relished being in a space of peace and calm, yet also held the capacity for seizing the moment and being the last one to leave a party. He lived life on his own terms. He loved time at home with family, music and concerts, the beach, hummingbirds and bird watching. He was a foodie and enjoyed motorcycles. He gave long, meaningful hugs. He was known for being charismatic and a truly open and accepting spirit-his kindness was always evident. He was always willing to lend an ear and gave coveted advice, always with love and a supportive tone.
Though fit and active, Jim passed away from a heart attack December 22, 2015. This is a small though impactful chapter in the rich life he lived. He will be missed, as he and Anna said to each other, “wonderfully,” and we, his family and friends, will honor his life by living with all the meaningful lessons he taught us. We will be forever thankful that he was a huge part of our lives, and that we shared this life together. We love you always, Jim. We will dance for you.
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