Tina M. Holst (nee Eales)

Tina M. Holst (née Eales), a lifelong resident of Waukesha, passed away on August 13, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on January 23, 1942, she was the daughter of Harold and Theodora (née Fischer) Eales. The Eales family, early settlers in Waukesha, contributed to the construction of the Chapel of St. Matthias Episcopal Church. Tina maintained her family's legacy at St. Matthias as an active, long-time member.

Tina was known for her outgoing personality and infectious smile that she put to good use through her community involvement as a Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader and volunteer at her children’s elementary school. She was a cherished co-worker for many years in food service at Lakeside Restaurant and as a service writer at Soerens Ford in Brookfield.

Tina developed a passion for baseball as a player in her youth and as a lifelong Milwaukee Braves and Brewers fan. She enjoyed bowling; playing for many years in leagues in Waukesha. On trips up north, Tina time and again showed she was the family’s master of Crappie fishing. Co-workers, family, and friends raved about and relished the products of her baking skills. Tina was an avid lifelong reader, a vocation enhanced by courses taken at Carroll College and one she passed on to her children and grandchildren.

Tina spent her last years at Heritage at Deer Creek senior living community, where she made new friends among residents and among the staff who cared for her with loving attention and dedication. She is survived by her children, Linda (James DeFrancesco) Holst and John (María Alicia) Holst; her granddaughters, Allison and Sarah DeFrancesco; and her sisters, Mary A. Owen and Joanne Kennedy. She is also remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband John Holst, and her long-time companion Kenny Priem.

The family will honor Tina’s life in a private memorial service at St. Matthias Episcopal Church followed by placement in the church columbarium. In lieu of flowers, if desired, memorials are appreciated to St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 111 E Main St, Waukesha, WI 53186.