Michael E Holland

Michael E. Holland, age 67, of Surprise, AZ, passed away at 1:25am on Monday, September 1, 2014. Mike was born on November 10, 1946 in Monroe, Wis. to Earl J. Holland and Janet L. Holland of Gratiot, Wis. He grew up in Darlington, attending Darlington High School, graduating in 1965. He entered the U.S. Air Force shortly after graduation and served 4 years in the Air Force before returning to Darlington. Following his marriage to Lynette DeRocher, also from Darlington, he worked at the Lafayette County Highway Department for a short time before re-enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He continued to serve in the U.S. Air Force until his retirement from military service in 1987. Mike went on to complete a Master Degree in History from Arizona State University in 1991. He became involved in Real Estate and eventually opened his own Real Estate business in 1997. In 2005, he and Lynette bought and opened a motel in Eloy, AZ. where he remained actively involved in the business until his passing.

Michael is survived by his wife of 44 years, Lynette Holland, formerly Lynette DeRocher of Darlington, Wis.; a daughter: Amy Van Ness (Chad) of Chandler, AZ; a son: Alex Holland (Jessica) of Surprise, AZ, six grandchildren: Simon, Molly, Ethan, Ben, Rachael and Claire; three sisters: Julie Holland, Lori Deaton (Ralph), and Tracy Barrett (Dave), a brother: Jeff Holland (Lorena), and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mike was an active and long term member of the Church of Christ, serving as an Elder and part-time pastor in several churches over the years. He was also very active in the Republican Party, serving as an alternate at the last Republican National Convention in Florida. He was a stranger to no one, befriending and chatting with anyone within earshot. He was able to see the good in people and gave of himself freely, willing to help anyone in need. He will be most remembered for his love and dedication to his family and friends, and his passion for life and the Lord.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, September 5th at 5:00pm in the Church of Christ, 10935 W Olive Ave., Peoria, AZ with Pastor Devin Labay presiding over the services. Arrangements under the direction of Advantage Funeral and Cremation Services Maryvale Chapel, Phoenix, AZ.