Tot Holmes, a member of the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame, passed away at 93 after a short illness. He was a Nebraska Press Association award-winning sports journalist, author, and publisher.
Moreover, he was a standout high school athlete and went on to become a lifelong baseball coach. His love for sports translated into a remarkable lifetime of service and storytelling.
His most prominent role was as Sports Editor of the Tri-City Tribune. He used his exceptional writing skills and deep fascination with statistics to transform the newspaper into the center of attention in Dawson County and the surrounding area.
Tot dedicated decades to the achievements of local high school athletes, particularly within the Southwest and Hi-Line Conferences.
His insightful reporting and compelling narratives brought well-deserved attention and notoriety to thousands of young competitors, making him a beloved and influential figure across the area.
His contribution earned him an induction into the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame as a Contributor in 2018.
Sadly, his tragic demise saddened the whole community, and many remembered him in their heartfelt condolence.
Truly a legend! Tot touched so many lives. His kind words of encouragement and support gave countless young kids the confidence to compete! I was blessed to be a Dodger and was coached in life as well as baseball!
Roben Ostergard
Condolences to Pearlie, Jay, and Joanie, and families!
Don “Tot” Holmes, Gothenburg Sports Icon And Community Builder, Dies At 93
The Gothenburg community and the Nebraska sports world mourn the passing of Don “Tot” Holmes, a respected journalist and author.
He was a tireless advocate for youth sports. His passion for baseball led him to found the Gothenburg Little League program, which has nurtured generations of young players.
Rest in power: Don "Tot" Holmes, perhaps the best sports editor in Nebraska newspaper history. Holmes was the longtime SE of the Tri-City Tribune in Cozad, Neb., and instrumental in the baseball scene at Gothenburg. Aged 93. pic.twitter.com/NClxIjoy6J
— Eric Viccaro (@ericjournalism) June 1, 2025
Tot remained intensely active in various youth initiatives for decades. He coached for years, guiding the Gothenburg Legion baseball team, famously known as “The Melons.”
He was an avid sports fan who channeled his statistical expertise into publishing comprehensive annual reviews of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
His love for history and community shone through in his books. He documented the 100-year histories of Gothenburg High School’s football and track teams, preserving invaluable local heritage for future generations.
Such a great guy who dedicated his life to community service and influencing & mentoring youth positively. He always greeted people with a smile 😊 hugs & prayers to his family ♥️
Kelli Ackerman
Furthermore, Tot was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. His personal life wasn’t in the spotlight as his professional journey.
His eldest granddaughter, Sarie Jacobsen, works as a housekeeping staff member at Tabitha Nursing and Rehab Center.
It’s the greatest honor to be my Grandpa Tot’s oldest granddaughter! He was simply amazing. A talented author and dictionary of everything baseball and then some.
Sarie Jacobsen
Tot’s life was a dedication to the power of sports to build community, inspire youth, and tell compelling stories.
He leaves behind a vast legacy etched in the record books he kept, the young athletes he coached, and the history books he authored.
Undoubtedly, his family, friends, former colleagues, athletes, and the entire Gothenburg community he served so faithfully will deeply miss him.
The Holmes family will soon announce Tot’s celebration of life. Rest In Power, Coach Don “Tot” Holmes.
In case You Didn’t know
- Don “Tot” Holmes was self-employed at Holmes Publishing.
- He attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
