Joe Lee Holbert passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2013 in Bakersfield, CA at the age of 74. He was born on January 3, 1939 to William Lee "Rab" & Mildred Joe (Bailey) Holbert in Abernathy, Texas, their only child. Joe graduated from Arvin High School in 1956. On January 12, 1957, he married his high school sweetheart, Faye Wimbish. They were married for 56 years. Joe grew up working for the family grocery store "Rab's Market" in Lamont, CA. He then worked for KISCO Sales for 20+ years. In 1983, Joe started JoRonCo Rentals with his son Ron. Joe was very active in his community. He was a member of the Arvin Bear Boosters; Arvin Exchange Club (President, as well as all other offices); Bear Mountain Recreation Board of Directors-serving Arvin, Lamont, & Weedpatch (worked with his good friend Bunkie Ash to establish Weedpatch Park); Lamont Chamber of Commerce – 4 Term President. Joe was also the recipient of many awards. He was the Arvin Chamber of Commerce Honorary Citizen of the Year; Lamont Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year – Twice; Honorary Mayor of Lamont; Arvin Exchange Club "Chet Davis Man of the Year" was one of his most treasured honors. Joe enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing with family and friends. Family was very important to him, and nobody loved their family more than Joe did. Joe is survived by his loving wife Faye Holbert; daughter Cindy Agundez and husband Adrian; daughter Christine Walkowiak and husband Jerry; son Ronnie Holbert and wife Jennifer; grandchildren Ben Walkowiak, Joey Agundez, and Katie Walkowiak; and faithful dog Mutt. He was preceded in death by his parents and mother-in-law Velia Wimbish. The family would like to thank Dr. Emmanuel Strategos & Dr. Nick Hansa and their staffs for keeping Joe's spirits up, and becoming his friends. Graveside service was held at South Kern Cemetery on Vineland Road at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, May 6, 2013. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that you make a donation in Joe's name to the Lamont Women's Club "Honor Flight for Veterans".