"Dear Gloria and family, I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He was always such a fun person to be around. I enjoyed visiting with him and Ed and Ray with Mom and Nancy a few years ago when we met them for dinner in Blue Earth . I offer you my condolences and wish you comfort at this time. cousin Cindy Holm Martin"
In loving memory of
Thomas J. Holland
October 17, 1949 - November 26, 2019
Tom was born October 17, 1949 in Blue Earth, Minnesota to Art and Rose Holland. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church and graduated from Frost High School. He attended Waldorf College and Winona State College.
Tom was united in marriage to Gloria (Etzen) Holland on August 28, 1971. Tom farmed nearly all of his life and in later years he shared his love of farming with friends who rented his land and grandchildren who rode along in the field. In the late 1980's, he formed Holland Construction with his brother Ed. Over thirty years, he remodelled, made additions to, and repaired numerous residential, commercial, and agricultural buildings in the area.
Tom had a servant's heart. He was active in the Rake Fire Department for twenty years, where he enjoyed serving as the Chief Training Officer for more than a decade. He also volunteered as an EMT with the Buffalo Center Volunteer Ambulance for over 15 years. He had a passion for serving the community and sharing his experiences with everyone he helped and trained. Tom was an active member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church serving on the council along with many other volunteer positions.
Tom is survived by his wife, Gloria, his son, Brian Holland and wife Tina, of Kansas City; daughter, Sarah De Jong and her husband Kent, of Marshalltown; along with daughter Ellie Oleson of Coralville. He will be greatly missed by his nine grandchildren: Alexa, Eva, Willow, Brooke, Carson, Emma, Joel, Maddie and Abby. He is also survived by his siblings: Arlet Aanestad; Ray Holland and his wife Sheryl; Donna Olsen and her husband Carrol; Sam Holland; Betty Bridges and her husband Barry; and Ed Holland; along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Rose Holland and sister, Karen Winter.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorials to be directed to Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Tom's memory.
Tributes
"Charlie Miller My condolences to you Gloria and your family my thoughts are with you. "
"So sorry to hear about your loss Gloria and family Thoughts and prayers during this difficult time "
"Our sympathy to you Gloria and your family. Gray and Ginger Goldtrap"
"Tom and Gloria were GREAT neighbors to our folks, Al and Norma Dudding. Tom was the ideal neighbor..... Something everyone should strive to be. As I visited with the guys in the morning at Casey's when I was in BC, if someone needed help Tom was a quick volunteer. The world will miss him. May he rest in peace."
"Gloria, Brian, Sarah and Ellie, so very sorry for your loss. Prayers for strength and comfort."
"Gloria & Family, I am so sorry about the passing of Tom. When I was farming and needed help, Tom was always willing to help. After I left the farm my parents Al & Norma Dudding would also call on Tom for help. He not only was a good neighbor but also a good friend. Tom will be missed. Jay Dudding "
"We are so sorry to hear about Tom?s passing. He was a good man who will be missed by so many people he came in contact with and helped. Our sincerest sympathy and loving prayers for the family. Richard & Cindy (Larson) Doyle"
"I am so sorry for your loss. Tom was a good friend and a wonderful care Provider in EMS . His years of service, leadership, mentoring and presences will be missed in the Fire and EMS Community. His selfless service may have Left the dinner table and family more often than he would like . His dedication to serving other in their time of need will not be forgotten. Isaiah 6:8 was a calling he shared with Many. May he rest now, Brother we will take it from here. "
"My sympathy to you all. Gloria, children and grand children.? "
"Our deepest sympathy at loss of your husband, father, grandfather. Thinking of you all, may God give you all comfort. Dale & Elaine Price"