Jason Holden

Jason Terry Holden of Backus died unexpectedly in Minneapolis, MN on March 14th 2013. He was 28.


Jason was born in Park Rapids, MN, on September 2nd, 1984. He grew up in Deerfield Township, attended Backus Elementary School, and graduated from Pine River-Backus, Class of 2003. He attended the University of Minnesota at Morris and graduated with a degree in Political Science and Political Theory in 2007. He was proud to have worked for Mark Ritchie in the Minnesota Office of Secretary of State during the 2008 recall election count. He also worked for the Scotts Company. His passion was writing and he wrote many short stories. He was a proud member of Democracy Matters.


Jason loved the outdoors and spent time hunting and playing disc golf. He also took memorable trips to Yellowstone and Washington D.C.


Jason was the type of person who respected all peoples and cultures. He could talk to anyone in any social situation, from debating policy with Norm Coleman to discussing Native American issues with friends. He had a quick wit and was always the champion of the underdog. Children loved him and he returned that love and energy.

Jason is survived by his parents, Terry and Michelle Holden, his grandparents, Merle and Naree Weaver, all of rural Backus. one sister, Aimee (Zac) Watson of Mission Township, one brother, Jeff Holden of Portland Oregon, one niece, Evelyn Watson, and two nephews, Warren and Waylen Watson. He is also survived by aunts, uncles, cousins, and many, many friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Marvin and Noel Holden.


Jason lived life to the fullest. While his time with us was cut short, he made a lasting impression on many people from all walks of life.


"Who is the happier man, he who has braved the storm of life and lived or he who has stayed securely on shore and merely existed?" - Hunter S. Thompson


Jason not only braved the storm, he embraced it. The void he has left will never be filled. IXI


Memorial services will be 5 PM on Tuesday, March 19 at the Church of the Nazarene in Backus. Visitation will be Tuesday from 3 PM until the time of service.