He was the son of Christian & Christiana Buzzard Holdeman.

"Taken from The Messenger of Truth"

Our father David Holdeman was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, September 16, 1825. When nine years old, his parents moved to Wayne County, Ohio, where he spent his childhood years. In 1847 he took Helena, oldest daughter of Conrad Kime to wife. In 1851 they moved to Elkhart County, Indiana, where they united with the Mennonite church. In 1855 they moved back to Ohio. During this time brother J.H. was called of God to separate from the old church, where our father also was with him. In the year 1859 they moved back to Indiana again, where a small congregation was gathered together and admonished themselves, where our father took an active part. In the year 1873 he moved with his family to McPherson County, Kansas. Here the country was new, the houses stood far apart, no members of their congregation, till late in the fall David Kaegi and family moved here from Morris County, Kansas, who were of the same faith. Here too, they were prompted to assemble themselves with their respective families to instruct them (together with all who gathered together in the ways of the Lord). In the year 1874 there was a large emigration of Mennonites from Russia to Kansas, at which time father was chosen as a member of the committee to care for the poor, to apply the money that was loaned them and given them as a gift, where he spent most a year of time gratis. In the year 1879-80 a large congregation were united (through conversion and baptism) with those few members where about one-half of his children were also converted, where we cant mark that the earnest prayer of parents is not in vain. To this union seventeen children were born, fourteen of which are still living. Father died the 6th of April, 1905. Three children, 24 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren preceded him. Aged 79 years, six months, and 21 days. Leaves his wife, 14 children, 93 grandchildren, and 53 great grandchildren to mourn his loss. His advice was often sought far and near. He was an example of patience and forbearance, his hand was not drawn back from the poor and needy, he was a bountiful giver in time of need. O that many might follow his example. He was very patient in his sufferings and departed in peace. Disease supposed to be paralysis. Funeral services were held at his home by bro. J. Dirks and T.A. Unruh, from Rev. 14, 13. D.B. Holdeman.