Lavar W. (Ponch) Holyoak Jr., 59, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2021 due to complications from cancer. He was born in Miami, Arizona to Lavar W. Holyoak Sr. and Iris Faye Holyoak.
Ponch spent many years as a dedicated K-9 officer for the Gila County Sheriff’s Office before transitioning to a career at Freeport Mines.
He is survived by his parents Lavar Sr. and Iris Holyoak, brother Eric (Laurie) Holyoak, nephew Jeremy (Anna) Holyoak, niece Chelsea Holyoak, uncle Raymond (Wylita) Holyoak, aunt Dupper Hundley, his good buddy Rob Knauss, and countless other family members and close friends. The family would also like to thank the Powers family for always being there for Ponch. You never failed to show up for him and were loved beyond measure.
He is preceded in death by his ex-wife and good friend Susan York.
Ponch always lived life fiercely and to the fullest. He was artistic, creative and constantly sought out new experiences. He bravely faced illness and adversity, inspiring strength and resilience among those who knew him. He will be missed tremendously.
Services will be held at Maranatha Baptist Church on Friday, January 14 at 1:30 p.m.
