Search by Name

Search by Name

Michael Holland Obituary

Michael C. Holland, Sr., age 52, of Dryden, passed away Saturday. Born in Erie, Pa. on November 16, 1958, he was a son of the late Earl and Mary Schaaf Holland. Michael was a graduate of St. James Grade School, Erie Cathedral Prep, and Indiana University of Pa. As an Administrator at SUNY Cortland for the past 30 years, he was a recipient of the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Professional Service and served as an academic advisor to students at the college. He was also a devoted member of Holy Cross Church and the greater Dryden community. A devoted husband, father, and community member, Michael was a volunteer basketball, soccer, and baseball youth coach for many years. He was a man of integrity filled with love and compassion for everyone around him. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years , Joanne Frantz Holland; four children, Michael Holland, Jr., Mary Holland, Dan Holland, and Kate Holland; his three brothers, David (Patricia) Holland, Tim (Kay) Holland, and Patrick (Karen) Holland; and his only sister, Beth (Phil) Hutchinson; a brother-in-law, Karl (Elizabeth) Frantz; along with many other nieces, nephews, and cousins. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011 at Holy Cross Church, 375 George Road, Freeville, N.Y. Burial will follow in Willow Glen Cemetery, Dryden, N.Y. Calling hours are Wednesday from 1 to 3 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. at the Perkins Funeral Home, 55 West Main St., Dryden, N.Y. In lieu of flowers, memorials are directed to the Michael C. Holland, Sr. Scholarship, c/o Dryden Central School, P.O. Box 88, Dryden, NY 13053-0088. www.perkinsfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Erie Times-News on Oct. 31, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Holland

Not sure what to say?





Tom Wignot

October 25, 2025

Rest in Peace Mike shout out to his great family!

Thomas Wignot

October 27, 2020

When I see Mike s photo I laugh and cry at the same time. We were great friends as graduate hall directors at Cortland State. Too many great times over my 2 years there. He was a green bay packer fan of Ray Nitschke a middle linebacker on the team. We had Nitschke engraved on his bowling ball for the Residence Life team. It was an awesome team and Mike led us. Mike and Joanne s daughter Mary would later play basketball at Nazareth College with my son s (Owen Wignot) future wife Brittany Wilson. A small world indeed. Mike influenced many in his time here. I was fortunate to be one of them. All the best to you Joanne and your family. Tom Wiggy Wignot

Jeff Flaherty

July 13, 2012

I know I am late to this, but I wanted to offer my condolences to the Holland family. I worked at SUNY Cortand from 1996-1998 and had the pleasure of "living" with the family one summer in Whitaker Hall while their house was being finished. It was a fun experience having neighbors in the Hall during that summer. Mike was always a role model in the field for me, and I am so sorry for your loss.

Jud Taylor

November 24, 2011

Elise and I send our heartfelt condolences to the entire Holland family on the passing of Mike. He was a passionate supporter of students and contributed significantly to the their quality of life through his advocacy for ever improved facilities and programs. We were fortunate to have had him as a member of the Cortland administrative team.

Sincerely,

Jud and Elise Taylor

Frank Schweigert

November 17, 2011

I was deeply saddened to hear of Mike's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those whose lives were impacted by Mike. I am an ATO from IUP and while I only met Mike once or twice (he had already graduated from IUP when I was there), his influence and leadership within the fraternity was evident and helped shape me to be the person I am today.

Randy Cox

November 17, 2011

Mike and I were both freshmen at IUP. After reading the 23 pages of the guest book and hearing about Little Mikey, Cousin Mike, Mr. Holland, Director Holland, Brother Mike, etc., I found it comforting and encouraging that the man they were all talking about was the same good hearted, upbeat, committed, compassionate (and sometimes goofy) guy I first met back in 1976. Thank God some people never change. His family has my deepest sympathy. God bless, Mike; may you rest in peace.

Rick "Shadow" Eckert

November 17, 2011

Rest in Peace Brother.

Mike Rinaldi

November 16, 2011

I am an ATO and only had the oppurtunity to meet Mike once or twice during golf outings or homecomings needless to say he was fun to be around...my deepest sympathy to your family. my thoughts and prayers are with you
Michael Rinaldi
IUP 93

November 7, 2011

I was sorry to hear the news that MIke had passed away. Vashti and I were in Florida as a colleague shared the news of his passing via telephone. Needless to say we were stunned. Mike was a wonderful friend to me for over 25 years. We shared many thoughts about many issues over that period of time. I know how much he loved and cared for his family. He was wonderful with parents, students, staff, and other members of the student affairs division. Mike was always willing to share his time, energy and support for colleagues. I will miss his sense of humor and his love and commitment to human kind.Please accept our heart felt condolences during this extraordinarily difficult time. Rich Peagler

Judith Emling

November 7, 2011

My deepest sympathy to Dave and Patty on the death of Michael.My the memories of your times spent with him help to sustain you during this beyond-difficult adjustment, and may he rest in peace.

Sincerely,

Judy

Julie Chrysler

November 6, 2011

Dear Holland Family,
Over 20 yrs ago I was the MA at Fitz Hall for three years and Mike was the Asst. Director for Residence Life. He was a great influence to so many college students and I will always remember him as a funny and easygoing boss! Prayers to all of you and the CState Community. Julie Hawes Chrysler

Mary McCarthy

November 4, 2011

To The Holland Family: My condolences for your loss. I was a RHD prior to the time Mike began at Cortland, but had the pleasure of meeting him when I returned to visit my Res Life friends. Mike was a pleasant guy with a great sense of humor and a real leader to Cortland.

Dave Causgrove

November 4, 2011

To all of the Holland Family
I cannot begin to tell you how saddened I was to hear of Mike's passing. The family has been through so much this year and I can only imagine how difficult this must be for everyone. Having grown up with the Hollands, they are a remarkable family and I know they will somehow find the will to carry on. Even though Mike lived out of town, every time I would see him, it was always so easy like we were still kids hanging out at Wesleyville school. Rest in Peace Mike, I will miss you.

Julie Phillips

November 4, 2011

To all of us missing Mike and saddened by the news of his passing... we know how lucky we are to have experienced him, to have laughed with him, to have learned from him and to have his example guiding us still. Mike took a chance on hiring me as an RD, along with a great group of folks, and I'm ever-grateful for that. I'm sorry he had to leave so soon and send loving wishes to his family -- his pride and joy. Here's to one of the very good guys.

Luigi

November 3, 2011

Arn, only God knows why I thought of you today. I am so sorry to learn of Mike's passing. My condolences to you and your children.

Tracy Keener

November 3, 2011

Dear Holland Family,
I am sorry for your loss. Mike was a wonderful man to work with. I was fortunate enough to have worked with Mike through Residential Services. Mike always had a smile on his face. He was excited about his work at Cortland and even more excited to talk about his family every chance he could. My condolences.

Luigi

November 3, 2011

Arn, only God knows why I thought of you today. I am so sorry to learn of Mike's passing. My condolences to you and your children.

Mary Fromknecht

November 3, 2011

To the Hollands,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, we are so sorry for your loss. Mike reached out to me on Facebook awhile back, and told me all about his family. We were classmates at St. James; I have fond memories of him.
The Fromknecht Family

November 3, 2011

Mike...I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. Please know my prayers are with you at this time. Nancy (TTC)

lucy hutchinson

November 2, 2011

Everyday I have woken with this heaviness inside of me. I know without a shadow of a doubt that the world is a lesser place without my Uncle Mike in it. I am very lucky to have had him in my life... as I continue to be lucky to have Holland~Schaaf blood running through my veins. I hope my generation proves to be as loving, kind and generous as the ones that have come before us. May we all find comfort and strength in the realization that he lived a life filled with goodness. Also in the knowledge that aunt fafa, nana and bup bup did such a great job with these 5 Holland children. My cousins miss nana even though some of them never knew her.... I think it will be the same with Uncle Mike.... he will be missed not only by us, but by those who come to know him through us.

Jack Bush

November 2, 2011

Joanne, Mike, Mary, Dan, & Kate,

Time has a way of slipping by while we are busy with our own lives. Our paths do not cross as often with my children all having graduated from Dryden High School however you are often thought of. Mike's passing is a reminder of how important it is to let the people in our lives know how important they are to us. Thank you Holland Family for all the great things you have contributed to the Dryden Community. God bless you all and give you strength to focus on the positive memories you had with your husband & father. The Bush Family

Shawn Smith

November 2, 2011

Dear Holland Family, I am so sorry to hear of this loss, both for you personally and the Cortland community as a whole. Mike was a valuable part of the City of Cortland's Housing Committee that formed in the interest of making Cortland a great place to live, work, and enjoy life. His voice was one of logic, compassion, and creativity. He was an active member and caring person. His civic engagement was inspiring to all who met him. May the knowledge of all the lives he touched comfort you at this time of great sorrow.

Vanderbilt Family

November 2, 2011

To the Holland Family: It saddens us to hear of the loss of Mike and we are truly sorry. We will always treasure our special memories of Mike, especially during the many years with our sons in baseball and basketball. He will be missed by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Love, Curt, Jean, CJ & Kristi

Tom & Cindy Comstock

November 2, 2011

So very sad to hear the news of Mike's passing. Our prayers are with all of the Holland family in your time of loss.

Regina Sargent

November 2, 2011

The news of Mike's passing was shocking. My heart aches. I had the pleasure of working with Mike through the SUNY housing officers group as well as the various res life training programs during the 14 years I worked at Binghamton University. He always had a smile and loved to laugh. He will truly be missed.
~ Regina Sargent, Athens, Georgia

November 2, 2011

To the Holland family,
I have great memories of growing up with Mike and playing basketball together at the Wesleyville Elementary School and then playing High School ball for the St. James Panthers back in the mid 1970's. "Hots" was a great guy and I am so sorry for your families loss. May you find comfort in God in your time of mourning.
Best regards,
Mike Peterson

Tekla Coolidge

November 1, 2011

My Heartfelt condolences to the entire Holland Family.

Tom Wignot

November 1, 2011

Dear Holland Family, I have fond memories of Mike when we were hall directors at Cortland in the early 80's. He was always a special person in my life even though we may have lost contact over the years. It doesn't surprise me with his accomplishments as a husband, father and involved community member. During my time at Cortland I was a part of a great group of hall directors and staff and will always remember Mike as a caring person who helped us keep our sanity. We had many laughs together. He will be sorely missed but his legend will live on!

Cathy and Steve Smith

November 1, 2011

Dear Joanne, Michael, Mary, Dan and Kate,
We echo the sentiments of so many who will greatly miss Mike. He was an extraordinary individual with a huge heart, a great passion for life and an obvious love for and pride in each of you.

Stuart Traub

November 1, 2011

Dear Holland Family,
I have known Mike for many years as a member of the SUNY Cortland community. We will miss his good humor, dedication to students, and kindness. My condolences to everyone.

November 1, 2011

I saw Michael at Binghamton on Saturday where we both worked on a house in Endicott. Michael drove us to Endicott and on the way he was very chatty. He definitely had a way of lighting up the mood and making everybody feel comfortable. The one day I saw him was the last I would ever see him. It is with great Sympathy that I write this note. I pray for the Holland Family because in just one day, I know without a single doubt you have lost a great and awesome person who sacrificed himself for the well-being of others. He worked tirelessly on the house as we broke down the entire basement. I personally shook his hands and I cannot believe that was his last day on this Earth. I know I am blessed because I got to meet such an inspiring character of a man. May his soul rest in perfect peace. God Bless.
MIke O.--- Student from SUNY Albany

Dianna Ink

November 1, 2011

To the Holland family, I'm so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. He was my son, David's, baseball coach many years ago. David looked up to him. He always said hello when ever I saw him. He was a very nice man!

Mary Smithers-Aumick

November 1, 2011

Dear Holland Family - my thoughts and prayers go out to each of you. I am sure that he has touched a number of young athletes and students lives, as his wife Joanne touched mine. Remeber the great times that you have had, cherishing them and know that you will all be together again. God Bless You All.

JoAnn Maresco Klee

November 1, 2011

Dear Holland Family, My heartfelt condolences go out to all of you. I was so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I was so happy when he reached out to me a few years ago to help celebrate your coaching career. I know that he was so proud of all of your accomplishments. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. God Bless You.

Heidi Searls

November 1, 2011

Mike will be deeply missed. He touched my heart when I first started working at Corey Union. He was the first person I was introduced to on the 4th fl, and he went out of his way to know me, and treat me with the up most respect. I will always remember him...GOD Bless

Steve Ackerknecht

November 1, 2011

I met Mike over 2o years ago and from day one he impressed me a educator who made a difference. He is such a student centered professional who did an outstanding job at Cortland. I know he has touched a number of student lifes and his family and especially his childred should be very proud of him. We lost a special person way too young. My deepest sympathies go out to Mike's family and friends.

Steve Ackerknecht
SUNY Cobleskill

Sarah Arsenault

November 1, 2011

My deepest sympathies to the entire Holland family. May your memories comfort you.

November 1, 2011

Dear Holland Family:
My deepest sympathy to you. I had the pleasure of working with Mike through our SUNY Residence Life connection. He was always so supportive and a true friend and colleague. He will be truly missed by his SUNY family as well.

Kris Kaufman
Buffalo State College

Lorie Leyburn

November 1, 2011

To The Holand Family,

I am sorry for your loss. I saw Mr. Holland at many sporting events and he always had a smile and beam of love in his eyes watching his children play what ever sport they were playing. I know that it is hard to think about it know but I know that some day you will see your husband and father again in heaven. He looks down on you with great love for you all.

Mary Kay LaLonde

November 1, 2011

Mike was an amazing man - so fun-loving, so caring and so devoted to his family, friends and to helping others. A great role model for all. God Bless you all.

Joanne & Randy Sterling

November 1, 2011

As so many have expressed, Mike was the best and had a ripple effect way beyond the Dryden community. He certainly "filled his dash" with love. And we sure can't forget his humor and dancing skills. As much as Mike and Randy made a lovely 'couple' on the dance floor.... sure was a sight! Truly know that our hearts break with you. We are so sorry for what you all are going through. God bless you in the days, months, years ahead as you put your lives back together.

May they laugh forever!

Mary Catharine Schaaf

November 1, 2011

Joanne, Michael, Mary Dan and Kate
I feel so lucky to have grown up with the Holland's, sharing a Sunday at Mame and Earl's, holidays and countless family parties! Mike was always a bright spot in the crowd…his laughter and playfulness filled the room. How lucky to call him cousin! He will be missed!
Sending sympathy, prayers and thoughts to each of you.
Mary and Dominic

Rachetta Family

November 1, 2011

We are so sorry for your loss and wish your family peace and comfort.

Katie Green Biondi

November 1, 2011

To the Holland Family: I wanted to extend my sympathies to you all. I was sorry to hear about Mr. Holland's passing. May you find comfort in your memories of him.

Pat Archambault

November 1, 2011

My prayers and thoughts are with all of you. Mike was always so full of life and love for his family and community. What a privilege to have known him.

Frank Willis

November 1, 2011

I am glad I had the opportunity to meet and talk about things that mattered most to him. (People)!. I knew that Mike was a very special Man when he would take the Cortland Transit bus to work while he would let his son use the vehicle to get to and from work himself.That was the last time I saw Mike and will never forget what he did. I am trult greatful to have met MIKE HOLLAND SR. I give my deepest condolences to the HOLLAND FAMILY and do what MIKE did all his life "HE PAID IT FORWARD". God Bless

P.S. Dryden will carry on Mike's tradition and Legacy

Jim and Beth Zielinski

November 1, 2011

To the Holland Family,
Our sincere sympathy at this time of loss. It is never easy to say goodbye to someone we love. God makes it hurt to let us know he only takes the very best. May you find peace in God's grace and let his love fill your hearts. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim and Beth Zielinski and Family

Jack Tovey

November 1, 2011

To the entire Holland family: Just wanted to extend my sincerest sympathies to all in the passing of Mike. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time.

November 1, 2011

To all of the Holland Family,
We are all saddened by the news and we will miss "little" Mikey. Our prayers are with you all.
Aunt Shirl, Craig, Bonnie, and all the Kerns.

Wendy (Corey) Grucza

November 1, 2011

Dave and family,
I'm so very sorry for your loss. My God comfort you at this most difficult time.

Kathy Palloto

November 1, 2011

Pat, Karen and family,
My sincere sympathies on the loss of your brother. All of these entries are a testament to an obviously wonderful man, loved and respected, taken much too young. God Bless.

Sheila Bowman

October 31, 2011

I am saddened to hear about the Holland's loss of Mike. I worked for Mike at Cortland State as an RA. Mike helped me to find a spot where I fit in and learned to love my time at Cortland. My deepest sympathies to Mike's family and friends.

Mikaela Winder

October 31, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with the Holland familyLove you Kate

Jeff Wigal

October 31, 2011

Mike had an influence on so many of us working in Student Affairs. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Edward Asselin

October 31, 2011

To the Holland Family,
I join many others writing on this site and holding Mike in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Mike was a colleague, mentor, and friend for many years through SUNYRLHA. Mike sure had a way of lighting up a room and making sure everyone felt comfortable and valued. Though we will miss him deeply, his positive impact will remain with all who knew him. Our sincere condolences to you all.

Michele Ross

October 31, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Mike from Cortland when I was a student. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

October 31, 2011

To the Holland Family: we were saddened to hear the news about Mike. Please know we are thinking of you and sending thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. The Bushnells--Jeff, Colleen, Doug, Randy

Keith Goodwin

October 31, 2011

To the Holland Family,
My deepest condolences. Mike will truly be missed by all that knew him. I am sure he is looking down on all of you and will be your guiding angel from above. God Bless.

Cousin Matt

October 31, 2011

To all the Hollands, Cousin Mike was quite a guy and was truly lucky to have such a great wife and family. Mike will be sorely missed. When we were kids, Mike wrote to Jack Webb the actor and Mike McCoy the football star and got both their autographs! I think Jack Webb inspired Mike to study criminology, he had an inate understanding of how people worked. So sorry in your time of loss. Love,Cousin Matt

Chris Beardsley

October 31, 2011

Dear Holland family -

I am one of the innumerable students Mike Holland guided during his time at Cortland. Mike's influence on my life cannot be measured, but will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and the Cortland State community. Mike will be missed by all.

Jessica VanDerPoel

October 31, 2011

My deepest condolences to the Holland family. I remember Mr. Holland from my time at SUNY Cortland and more when I was an RA there. He was kind, always willing to help, and never went a moment without a smile on his face.

October 31, 2011

Dryden sports will NEVER be the same. His positive demeanor at all the games was contageous.
He is definately going to missed.
Your family is in our prayers. If you need ANYHING...please do not hesitate to call me!!

Seltzer Family

Dean Coburn

October 31, 2011

Saddened to hear the news of Mike's passing. He was my dorm director at Cheney Hall my freshman and sophomore years, 1981-1983. He was a terrific guy! Always upbeat and cheerful. Always took time to talk to me and other students in the dorm. Mike was also a good friend of my wife's cousin, Bob Derda. The 2 of them grew up together in Erie, PA along with good friend Peter Deroy. Thoughts and prayers going out to family and friends.

Jennifer Pollard

October 31, 2011

I am shocked and so saddened to hear of Mike's passing. I visited with him on the Cortland campus a few years ago and he gave me a tour of the remodeled residence halls; he was so proud of the transformations. I learned so much working for Mike 20 years ago and I still manage my staff agendas and meetings the way Mike ran our RD meetings so many years ago. My prayers to the Holland Family and the Cortland Community for a horrible loss.

Scott Lewis

October 31, 2011

I had the distinct pleasure of working for Mike Holland 20 years ago as a Hall Director at Cortland. He was an incredible man that touched my life and the lives of countless others in more ways than anyone can imagine. Thank you Mike for your professionalism, humor and heart. The world is a better place because you were in it. You will be missed.

October 31, 2011

Dear Holland family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Mike was an awesome person whom we had the pleasure of watching sports with over the years. He always helped fold the flag after the Varsity baseball games and I will never forget the time he helped me entertain a group of boys at one of Colby's birthday parties. He will be sorely missed. Cathy, Clark, Carly and Colby Gee

John Schaaf

October 31, 2011

To Joanne and family: Mike Weaver and I were saddened to hear of Mike's death. Obviously, no one can explain what happened. We'll be praying and thinking about all of you. Wish we could be there to show support. We love all of you. Cousins John and Mike

Ute Gomez

October 31, 2011

To the Holland Family,
Many people talk about things they will do but Mike did things and was the first with an extended helping hand. I worked with Mike at SUNY Cortland and will truly miss his warm, smiling, and big hearted personality. People come and go in our lives but Mike left a large imprint. We truly lost a good guy.

Joe Boehman

October 31, 2011

I was shocked and saddened by this news. I worked for Mike over 20 years ago as a Residence Hall Director...I learned many valuable lessons from him. What a great caring man and mentor. You will be missed by many, Mike Holland.

Dawn Langdon

October 31, 2011

I was an RA and an RD under Mike! He made a tremendous contribution to Cortland and I was pleased to visit him whenever I got back there. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. It doesn't seem that long ago when I babysat Mike and Mary! God Bless, Dawn (Patak) Langdon

October 31, 2011

Mike had a great influence on my professional development 20 years ago when I was on his professional staff, in ways that I still use often today in my career. What a tremendous loss. Terry Fairbanks (Wash DC)

Eric Mulvihill

October 31, 2011

As News Director of the Radio Station in Homer I had the pleasure to work with Mike on a variety of issues over the last nine years. I will always remember that giant smile and his upbeat attitude. Truly a loss for the Cortland community. Best Wishes to Mrs. Holland and family, I'm very sorry for your loss.

Jeff Chitester

October 31, 2011

I am deeply saddened by this news... Mike was my boss and friend at Cortland 20 years ago. The Holland family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Matt Colbert

October 31, 2011

I was very fortunate to have known Mr. Holland since I was very young and he was the one of the nicest people I have ever met. He was always willing to help anyone in need and I will be forever thankful that I was able to know him. I have an extremely heavy heart for the Holland family and I wish them nothing but the best in the recovery process. Great people don't come around too often anymore, but Mr. Holland was one of those rare individuals. He will be forever missed by many.

Michael Newbauer

October 31, 2011

Dear Holland family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Mike was a wonderful man we were RAs in Bishop hall between 91-93 and knew him well. He was a wonderful resource to all of us. When we went to visit Cortland he spent time walking us around showing off the new renovations. It was a pleasure to work under him. He will be truly missed by all.

Michael Newbauer 93 Maryann Mosher 94 Deborah Franko 94

Ken Knappe

October 31, 2011

My sincerest condolences and prays go out to the Holland family. As a student at Cortland, I had the privilege of being mentored by Mike on numerous occasions. He assisted, mentored and advocated for countless students that have passed through Cortland over the years. On behalf of so many that he guided and helped, my I offer up our prays for his family.

Father of a friend

October 31, 2011

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Andrew Alindogan

October 31, 2011

My condolences and prayers to the Holland family.
I was an RA for 3yrs at Cortland as he was the Director of ResLife. A colorful and vibrant man and I am glad to have known him.

Steve Palmer

October 31, 2011

With a heavy heart I send my sincere condolences to the Holland family. I worked as an Assistant Director with Mike from 1999-2001. Mike was one of the friendliest and nicest people I have had the pleasure to work with. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Chauncey Bennett

October 31, 2011

My wife and I send the most somber and heartfelt condolences to the Holland family. Mike was a man of character and integrity who always put others before himself. He will be deeply missed by those of us in the campus community who have worked with him for more 20 years. You are in our prayers!

Christie Zwahlen

October 31, 2011

I was so saddened to hear of Mike's passing. Although I was not fortunate enough to have met Mike during this weekend's Flood Clean Up, I have heard so many wonderful things about his kind spirit. Sincere condolences to all who benefited from knowing him.

Jerry Phillips

October 31, 2011

Dave, Tim, Pat, Beth & Family,

I'm very sorry on the passing of Mike. I have great childhood memories of playing basketball at the Holland residence & at the Wesleyville playground with Mike. He was a great guy. God bless all of you.

Becky Colbert

October 31, 2011

The sadness I'm feeling is overwhelming. Mike was such a wonderful man. He touched so many people in so many ways. The one memory (of many) I'll always chuckle about is almost every morning I would pass Mike on Livermore Rd. as he was on his way to work. We always saw each other coming and we had a special wave that we gave each other. I, along with so many others will miss this amazing man. He was an inspiration..

Christine Nadeau-Pupek

October 31, 2011

To the Holland Family: I was so saddened to hear of Mike's passing and your loss. I worked with Mike while I was an RD at Cortland and he was such a great man with a memorable smile and laugh. He will be missed by so many who were touched by his spirit and generosity. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Shawn Angelcyk

October 31, 2011

To my family,
I just wanted to tell you that you are in our hearts and prayers. I know their is nothing I can say to make this any easier, but know that I love you and grieve with you even if I cannot be there.
With our deepest sympathy,
Shawn, Jeff and Dexter

Diane Kelsey

October 31, 2011

To the Holland Family....Our thoughts and Prayers go out to you all.... so Sorry and Heartbroken for your loss.... <3 ( Keith Diane Tony Kaitlyn Kayla ) Diane Kelsey

October 31, 2011

There are no words to express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. My love, prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this sad time. Mike will be missed by so many. Much Love, Lynnie (Kristen and Erin Fratamico)

Heather Farmer

October 31, 2011

Our sincerest condolences to the Holland Family. As former Cortland staff members of the Res. Life team we are deeply saddened to hear about his untimely passing. Know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of so many. Heather, Mike and Alisandra Farmer

Cindy Thomas

October 31, 2011

My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I was a student under Mike and then worked for him for a few years in Residential Services...He had an infectious laugh and smile, and was always willing to lend an ear when you needed one. I have always appreciated the professional guidance he gave through the years. All the best to the family, our prayers go out to you.

Don, Bonnie, Chloe, and Dave Scutt

October 31, 2011

Dear Joanne,Mike,Mary,Dan and Kate,

We are so very sorry for your loss. Mike will be greatly missed by the entire community. He was devoted to all of you, no more so evident than when he proudly watched (along with Joanne)the sporting events that one of you happened to be in at the time! We will miss his smiles, sense of humor, and energy while volunteering for the Dryden Sports Boosters - he was a grill master! Don also remembers him fondly for his years of volunteering as a Baseball Coach for Dryden Kiwanis.
We're sure Mike is looking down on all of you and sending his love to help guide you through this extremely difficult time. Please know you are not alone and if there's anything - anything at all - that you need only have to call. As Mike was there for any of us, so shall we be here for you.

October 31, 2011

Dear Joanne,
We send our prayers to you and to all of your family. During this unbelievably sorrowful time, may you take comfort knowing that Mike is resting in the palm of God's hand.
Sharon and Dick Buechel

Beth Rugg

October 31, 2011

To the Holland Family,

Mike touched all of our lives. He was a real example to all of us. We are deeply saddened by your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The Rugg family.

Brenda, Chris, & Courtney Armitage

October 31, 2011

Joanne, Michael, Mary, Dan, and Kate ~ Words cannot describe how heartbroken we are for you. We will never forget Mike and what a wonderful husband and father he was. May God's Love comfort and surround your family at this time. With our prayers for strength and courage,

Kathleen Gauthier

October 31, 2011

Dear Holland Family: I am so sorry for the loss of Mike. I've worked with Mike for years and always enjoyed talking with him He was always willing to help and had kind words for everyone. I will miss his laugh and smile. My prayers are with you in your time of need.

Amy LeViere

October 31, 2011

Praying for your family. At the Dryden games, Mr. Holland was always there rooting for and supporting everyone's kids. How much I've appreciated his words of encouragement to my boys over the years. (Amy, Luke, Rob, Zack, Thad and Ty LeViere)

Susan Pacinelli DiVecchio

October 31, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with the Holland Family today. So sorry for your loss. Michael and I met in kindergarten at Wesleyville school and continued through St. James. Over the years I would see him with Bob, Pete and my brother Joe. They called him Hots... He was always kind and thoughtful.

Dan Sidebottom

October 31, 2011

Dear Holland Family: My thoughts go out to you! I had the privilege of working with Mike at SUNY Cortland for over 10 years. Mike touched many lifes here at the college and SUNY wide. Mike always had the students best interest in mind. His heart was huge!!! Mike will be sorely missed. Be proud of the man he will always be!!

October 31, 2011

Dave, Patty and Family,
Our condlences on the passing of you brother. He was certainly carrying on in tradition of the Holland brothers. Spoke to Pat briefly this AM about the unfotunate circumstances. We will keep you all in our thoughts.
Dennis and Marikae Cerami

Tammy webster

October 31, 2011

To the Holland Family: My thoughts and prayers go out to you. I'm sorry for your loss.

Mark Digiacomo

October 31, 2011

My most sincere condolences to the Holland family. The Dryden community has lost a wonderful person and he will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.

Showing 1 - 100 of 118 results

Make a Donation
in Michael Holland's name

Memorial Events
for Michael Holland

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Michael's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael Holland's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more