Buxton-Richard “Rick” Holman, age 66, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House after his courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Rick was born in Westbrook, Maine, on March 8, 1959, the son of the late John A. Holman and the late Bertha (Wood) Nickerson. He grew up in both Buxton and Topsham and attended Mt. Ararat High School. A true jack of all trades, Rick lived a life full of hard work, creativity, and deep love for those around him.
He spent his early years lobstering with his family, later working for many years at Coca-Cola, where he made lifelong friends. Eventually, Rick found his true passion as a craftsman and business owner of The Wooden Splinter. His unique artistic style and woodworking talent touched the hearts of many and left a lasting impression in the local community.
Rick loved the outdoors—especially fishing—and spent many cherished moments working on cars with his sons. He was a man of many interests, including playing guitar, pool, poker, and chess. Music was a constant in his life, and he enjoyed strumming his guitar in his free time.
Above all, Rick’s greatest joy was his family. Through his loving marriage to Tammie Burdwood, he was blessed with three children: Ricky, Tricia, and Kerri. Later, through a cherished partnership with Beth Green, he welcomed his son Ian. Rick loved all of his children deeply, and each held a special place in his heart.
He was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Tricia Louise Holman (1984); siblings Paul W. Holman, Evelyn E. Linscott, Cheryl A. Hadley, and Tammie L. Maloney.
Rick is survived by his children:
• Richard K. Holman of Buxton
• Kerri A. Brackett and her husband Dwight of Buxton
• Ian C. Holman of Gorham
He also leaves behind his brothers:
• Peter L. Holman and wife Tammy of Brunswick
• Stanley Holman and wife Sandy of Virginia
• John Allen Holman and wife Linda of Buxton
Rick was the proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren: Braydon, Ellie, Bentley, Charlie, Xander, Kameron, Watson, Spencer, Zachary, Peyton, Aubrey, and Travis. He will also be missed by his beloved dog, Kong, numerous nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of friends—including most recently his two closest friends, Larry Rheaume and wife Becky, and John Pilz and wife Barbara, all of Buxton.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 6–8 p.m. at Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service Chapel, 498 Long Plains Road, Buxton.
In accordance with Rick’s wishes, his ashes will be spread at sea in a private ceremony with his immediate family.
Online condolences may be shared at www.mainefuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Marine Life Sanctuary at https://mlssbc.com/campaigns/donate-to-the-mlss/