how to close these holes?

 From:  wimverbe
5480.1 
I want to know if there is an easy way to close these 2 holes. the bigger one I was able to close by cutting the object in 2, then selecting the edge of the opening and blend it. but that does not work for the circular opening.

and the first solution is also a bit awkward I think.

any better techniques?
tnx
wim