Jonathan Holden, 83, passed away December 20, 2024, in Manhattan, Kansas. He was born on July 18, 1941, in Morristown, New Jersey, son of Alan Holden and Jaynet Conselyea Holden. He earned a BA in English from Oberlin College (1963), an MA in Creative Writing from San Francisco State College (1970), and a PhD in English from the University of Colorado (1974).
Jonathan taught at Kansas State University. He was named Poet-in-Residence and achieved the rank of University Distinguished Professor. Previously, he served as Poet-in-Residence at Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, and later, visiting Thurston P. Morton Professor of English at the University of Louisville. Early in his career, he taught high school math in West Orange, New Jersey, an experience that contributed to his notable essay, “Poetry and Mathematics (Georgia Review).”
A poet, critic, essayist, and memoirist, Jonathan also published one novel and had several one-act plays produced. He was the first Poet Laureate of the State of Kansas.
He was also named Phi Beta Kappa and served on the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry committee. He won many awards for his books and two National Endowment for the Arts Awards. Jonathan was a major influence on the lives of many students who became teachers of creative writing themselves.
Jonathan and his spouse Ana enjoyed many years together. Their favorite travel destinations were Santa Fe and Boston although their adventures took them as far as Russia. In addition to the written word, they enjoyed music, art, and culinary adventures together.
Jonathan is survived by his spouse Anita Cortez (whom Jonathan always addressed as “Ana”) of the home; daughter Alanna Vimont (Jon) of Marietta, Georgia; son Zachary Holden (Erin) of Lolo, Montana; stepson Jason Bond (Erica) of Cambridge, Massachusetts; and his twin Stephen Holden (Alvaro) of New York City.
A celebration of life is being planned for later this spring, and a more detailed listing of Jonathan’s works and accomplishments will be available digitally. Memorial contributions may be sent to establish the Jonathan Holden Poetry Prize through Kansas State University’s English Department or to the philanthropy of your choice in care of Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502