Joel D Holland

In Loving Memory of Joel Holland (Papa Pumpkin)

Joel Holland, 77, of North Puyallup, passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord on October 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family at home.

Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Martin S. Holland and Lorraine Holland, and his sister, Carol Holland Reindl.

Joel's legacy of love will live on through his devoted wife, Mari Lou Holland; his daughters, Shannon Holland Johnson (Kent) and Shawn Holland Smith (Dave); his five cherished grandchildren, Jacob Smith, Olivia Smith Burckhard (Thomas), Hayden Smith (Amber), Taylor Johnson Parke (Payton), and Hallie Johnson Swanson (Tyler); and his five beloved great-grandchildren, Joseph, Jackson, June, Grayson, and Parker. He is also survived by his siblings, Tim Holland (Linda), Sharon Carlstrom (Tom), Mark Holland (Shar), and Cindy Connelly (Mike), along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Joel dedicated 31 years of service to the people of Puyallup as a Firefighter, Captain, and Battalion Chief. He carried out his duties with humility, integrity, courage, and compassion, earning the respect and admiration of those who served alongside him and the community he so faithfully protected.

Known affectionately as “Papa Pumpkin,” Joel gained international recognition for growing world-record giant pumpkins. His record-setting pumpkin, grown in 2017, weighed an astonishing 2,363 pounds. He loved sharing his passion with others and never missed an opportunity to encourage fellow growers or introduce children to the wonder of these giant pumpkins. One of his greatest joys was bringing his pumpkins to local schools attended by his grandchildren, where students could touch, hug, and marvel at their enormous size. Seeing the excitement on children's faces brought him tremendous happiness.

Joel was also an accomplished swimmer, earning medals multiple times over several years in the Washington State Senior Games. His strength and love of swimming began in childhood, when he spent time swimming in the local lakes and rivers, building the skills and endurance that stayed with him throughout his life. Another of his cherished hobbies was lapidary, the art of working with stone to create beautiful pieces. He loved sharing this craft with family and friends, generously gifting handcrafted jewelry and belt buckles. These treasured keepsakes are lasting reminders of his creativity, thoughtfulness, and the love he expressed through the things he made.

Joel was also a proud classic automobile enthusiast. He took great pleasure in caring for and showing his classic cars, enjoying the friendships and camaraderie that came from sharing his passion with fellow collectors and admirers.

Beyond his many accomplishments and hobbies, Joel's greatest pride and happiness came from his family. He loved creating memories through family vacations, outdoor adventures, and countless activities with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether traveling, hiking, exploring the outdoors, or simply spending quality time together, Joel treasured every moment. He was happiest when surrounded by family.

Joel's life was defined by service, generosity, faith, and an unwavering love for family. He touched countless lives with his kindness, wisdom, humor, and willingness to help others. Whether serving his community, sharing his passion for giant pumpkins, creating beautiful gifts, or making memories with those he loved, Joel left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Though he will be deeply missed beyond words, his legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, the friendships he built, and the countless lives he touched. The memories he created and the love he shared will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life Service and Luncheon will be held at Farm 12, 3303 8th Ave. S.E. Puyallup 98372 on Friday, November 20th, 2026, at 11 A.M.,

Luncheon to follow service

"Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23)