John Coleman "Spike" Holden

John Coleman "Spike" Holden, 60mcl, died December 9 in East Montpelier, Vt. A native Vermonter, he worked as a pilot with American Airlines from 1967 until his retirement in 1998. He was a natural athlete who enjoyed many sports. He captained the Harvard ski team, training for Olympic tryouts before a leg injury sidelined him; he competed in motorcycle races and marathons; in tennis he was an instructor and competed in amateur tournaments.

After obtaining a glider's license he started a business, Mood Elevator, which offered rides in a hot-air balloon. (Later he added a "forest products division," which sold firewood.)

He played the trombone, sousaphone, and string bass in several local groups, including the Montpelier City Band and the Montpelier Community Orchestra. He was also deeply devoted to the study of spiritism and realms of higher consciousness.

He leaves his wife, Janet (MacLeod), a daughter, Jessica Sherwood, a son, Loring, and three sisters, Sarah Thompson, Bonnie Carter, and Martha.