Groveland - H. Kenrick Holden Jr., 79, of Groveland, died Thursday evening, January 30, at Wingate in Haverhill.

He was born in Manchester, N.H., May 16, 1940, son of the late Thelma (Green) Holden and Harry Kenrick Holden Sr.

Upon graduating from the former Mt. Hermon, now Northfield Mt. Hermon High School, he earned his bachelor's degree from Bates College and master's degree from the University of Maine.

For over 40 years he was a professor at Northern Essex Community College from where he retired. While at the college, he was instrumental in starting the nursing program.

Mr. Holden was an active member of the Groveland Congregational Church where he served on several committees, was a member of the choir, and served as a Deacon. Mr. Holden was also an avid fly fisherman.

His survivors include his wife of 54 years, Jane A. (Prescott) Holden of Groveland; a son, Erik P. Holden and his spouse Cresson of Scituate, Kirsten J. Collins and spouse Thomas of Ashland; siblings, Karen Truhart of Athol, Keith Holden of Orange, Kay Holden of Athol, and Kerry Lynn Grimes of Orange; three grandchildren, Emily Collins, Abigail and Charles Holden; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his calling hours on Friday, February 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the H.L. Farmer & Sons Funeral Home, 106 Summer St., Haverhill. His Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 8, at 2:30 at the Groveland Congregational Church, 4 King St., Groveland. Interment in Riverview Cemetery will be private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Groveland Congregational Church, 4 King St., Groveland, MA 01834. To share a memory, or for more information, please visit www.farmerfuneralhomes.com.