Aric Andrew Holmes

Our beloved Aric Andrew Holmes passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 28, 2025, in Norman, Oklahoma, at the age of 37.

Aric was born on August 1, 1988, in Denver, Colorado, to Debbie and John Holmes. He grew up in Littleton, Colorado with his older brother, Jesse, and from the start was known for his head of blonde curly hair and his joyful smile. He graduated from Columbine High School, attended the University of Colorado, and later earned a degree in Digital Communication and Multimedia from Metropolitan State University of Denver.

Aric was endlessly creative. He had a gift for photography and design. He poured his creativity and dedication into everything he did — whether leading as a director of marketing, running photo shoots, or inspiring future designers in the classroom at the University of Oklahoma.

Aric was also an accomplished athlete and an adventurer at heart. Sports were a huge part of his life during his high school and college years, and his love of running kick-started what became an ever-growing collection of running shoes. He also loved the mountains, spending countless days snowboarding in Colorado, camping and going to the lake. His family, his Colorado roots, sports, the outdoors and his active lifestyle were simply part of who he was. He loved cheering on his Colorado Buffs, Denver Broncos and, once in Norman, became a full-fledged Sooner fan.

But the truest picture of Aric wasn’t his work or hobbies, it was the way he loved as a husband, father, son and brother. He met his wife, Cari, at 20, while working at an athletic store in Boulder. They married in 2012 and built a beautiful life together with their two children, Cohen (10) and Parker (5), and their dog Riley. Being a dad was his greatest joy. He poured his energy into practicing sports with his kids, immersing himself in their activities, cheering them on from the sidelines, planning family adventures, grilling dinners, and creating everyday memories at home. To Cari, Cohen, and Parker, he was the heart of their world.

Aric was also the spark in every crowd, outgoing, mischievous, and never without a joke. His laugh and smile were big, contagious, and impossible to forget. He had a love for Oklahoma storms and an even bigger love for fireworks. His backyard firework shows became legendary, delighting friends, and sometimes startling neighbors.

Aric leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and creativity. He was the one who filled a room with energy, the friend who never met a stranger, the husband who cherished his wife, and the dad who gave his children his whole heart.

Aric was preceded in death by his grandparents, Richard and Madonna Hill, and Lonnie and Frances Holmes. He is survived by his wife Cari; their children, Cohen and Parker; his parents, Debbie Holmes and John Holmes; his brother, Jesse Holmes and his wife Jessica Bloom; his cherished dog, Riley; and many family and friends who loved him deeply.

The family will hold a private celebration of Aric’s life at a later date.