Steven Earl Holley

Steven Earl Holley of Bemidji MN, loving husband and father, age 78 passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his wife Jan, kitty Willow, and the great outdoors he enjoyed so much. Born in Fairmont, MN in 1947, Steven grew up on the shores of Bud Lake with his grandpa teaching him how to fish for crappie and perch.

After selling the family feed store in 1962 he moved to Bemidji with his family and began farming. In Bemidji Steven would finish high school, attend BSU for business, make a family, and forge friendships he would enjoy all his life.

Steven began his career with North Central Door in 1968 unloading components from railcars. He learned the door business from the ground up and after serving as General Manager for several years he and a partner purchased the company in 2001. In 2003 two more partners were added and plans for expansion and a new facility moved ahead.  In 2006 a General Manager was hired as the local lakes and the great outdoors were calling to Steven.  The partners sold North Central Door in 2023.

Upon retirement, Steven embraced the outdoors to the fullest, fishing Lake Plantagenet where he lived, competing in local fishing tournaments, creating lush food plots for the wildlife down at the shack, going on antiquing road trips with his wife, spending quality time with his son and other family members, all the while still making time for local boards, charities, and neighbors in need.

Steven is survived by his wife Jan Holley, son Justin Holley (Alicia), his sister Dianne D’Alessandro, nieces Michelle Curry and Pamela Van Auken, nephews Chris D’Alessandro, Jay Holley and Jon Holley, several cousins with whom he enjoyed hanging out with, a special shout out to Chuck Maday, and many friends, both business and personal with a special shout to Larry Sundquist. Steven is preceded in death by his father Harold Holley, mother Hazel Holley, brother Jerry Holley and brother-in-law Joe D’Alessandro.

Steven’s legacy is one of fierce love for family and tradition, the great outdoors, his business endeavors and affiliations, and the desire to always help people he cared about.

A Celebration of Life for Steven will be held on May 20th at the Eagles Club of Bemidji from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. Walleye (of course) will be served buffet style. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to a local outdoor charity, Wildlife Sanctuary, or Sheriff’s Association.

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