Rob James Holtzinger

Robert "Rob" James Holtzinger, 73, of Enid, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on July 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Rob was born on January 30, 1953, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Robert Pharez and Roma (Smith) Holtzinger. After graduating from high school, he moved to Enid in 1971 to attend Phillips University, where he earned his college degree and began building a life rooted in service, family, and community. On December 7, 1984, Rob married the love of his life, Lavon Watkins. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for their children and grandchildren.

Throughout his career, Rob was known for his strong work ethic and genuine care for others. He worked in retail sales for Coldiron's, Lambert's, and Dillard's along with serving as the night attendant for Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home. He later found his true calling as a Mental Health Specialist with INTEGRIS Behavioral Health, where he dedicated 15 years to helping disadvantaged children and youth. Rob found great fulfillment in witnessing the positive changes and growth in the lives of those he served before retiring. A lifelong believer in giving back, Rob generously volunteered his time with the Enid Jaycees, Contact Telephone Crisis Counseling, Hospice, and as a CASA Advocate for children. His commitment to making a difference touched countless lives throughout the Enid community. Rob loved staying active and could often be found playing softball, baseball, basketball, or bowling. He also enjoyed umpiring baseball games and was a devoted fan of the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Oklahoma Sooners, rarely missing an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams.

Above all else, Rob treasured his family. Some of his happiest memories were spent cheering from the sidelines at his children's sporting events and making lifelong memories on family vacations. He was deeply proud of watching Ashley and Shawn grow into responsible, compassionate adults.

Rob believed that a person's character mattered more than anything else. He often shared words of wisdom with those he loved: "Character is built through obstacles. Be self-directed and value the opinions of those you love. Judge yourself, not others." Those principles guided his own life and remained a lasting legacy for his family.

His greatest joy was being a devoted husband to Lavon, a loving father to Ashley and Shawn, and especially "Pop Pop" to Claire, Quinn, Henry Voss, and Hattie Holtzinger. His grandchildren brought him immeasurable happiness, and he treasured every moment spent with them. Just weeks before his passing, Rob attended his beloved Phillips University reunion at the end of June, where he enjoyed reconnecting with lifelong friends. Those annual gatherings were among the highlights of his year, and he cherished the enduring friendships that spanned decades.

Rob is survived by his loving wife, Lavon Holtzinger; his daughter, Ashley Voss and husband, Jake; his son, Shawn Holtzinger; his cherished grandchildren, Claire, Quinn, Henry Voss, and Hattie Holtzinger; his sisters, Judy Spence and Joyce Kelley; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Pharez and Roma Holtzinger. Rob will be remembered for his servant's heart, quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and the love he gave so freely to his family, friends, and community. His example of kindness, compassion, and character will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

The family has chosen to celebrate Rob's life with a private Celebration of Life service. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.ladusauevans.com. Memorials may be made to Youth and Family Services and CDSA with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory serving as custodians of the funds.