Harold S. "Hank" Holt

COTUIT, Mass. — Harold “Hank” Spencer Holt, 80, formerly of Athol, died unexpectedly Aug. 4, 2025 at his home in Cotuit, from heart-related issues.

Hank was born in Gardner, Mass. on Sept. 1, 1944 and grew up in Athol. He graduated from Athol High School in 1962 and received his Licensed Practical Nursing degree from Gardner State Hospital in 1963. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1964 to 1968. Hank was also a licensed hairdresser, and held various healthcare-related certificates, as well as those in denture making and hypnotism.

Hank was predeceased by his husband, Jim Visbeck, in January of 2024. The couple had been together for 44 years, and enjoyed traveling extensively around the world. In 1989, they relocated their Isaiah Thomas Books & Prints store from Worcester, to Cotuit, on Cape Cod. Hank was well known throughout the community and from attending many book fairs and shows over the years.

     Hank also enjoyed crafts and collecting antiques. He was blessed with many friends throughout his life, including long-time friends Robin and Peter Trimble who cared for him in his later years.

Hank was predeceased by his parents, Flora and Samuel Gordon; his birth father Harold Spencer, Sr.; and brothers Russell Holt and William Holt.

He is survived by a sister, Darlene Schatz, of Athol; two brothers, Ronald Holt of Connecticut and Shayne Gordon of Athol; nieces and nephews, including Christopher (Lynn) Holt, Lisa Holt, Cheryl Holt Purcell, Sammy Holt, Dennis Holt, Shannon Holt Page, Missy Holt McLean, Jason Ruttle, Zachary Gordon, Vincent Gordon, Lindsey Hamlett and Alexis Hamlett; and cousins William Guerrin, Lori Guerrin, Joseph Boudreau, Sharon Kellums, Deborrah Porter and Pennie Mallet.

Those dear to Hank will remember his mischievous nature, his infectious smile, and his crazy laugh.

 A private gathering is being planned for the Fall on the Cape.

Donations in Hank’s memory may be made to: Elder Services of Cape Cod, 68 MA-134, South Dennis, MA. 02660).

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