Thomas "Tom" Aron Holland

Thomas Aron Holland, 83, known to many simply as Tom, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025. A quiet, loyal, and deeply loving man, Tom was a friend, mentor, and father figure to many---always young at heart and never acting a day over 60.

Born in Oakland, California, on February 3, 1942, to George and Alyce Holland. Tom was raised with a strong work ethic and a deep love for horses, traits that defined him throughout his life. Working with the horses was never just a job for Tom; it was part of who he was.

Tom's story with his beloved wife Anna began in childhood. Their lives first crossed paths when they were just eight years old, brought together by George and Alyce's friendship with Anna's family. They spent summers playing together in Golden Gate Park, creating memories that would later shape their lifelong bond.

Tom attended school in San Francisco and then proudly served in the United States Marine Corps for five years and five days, including combat service as an infantryman during the Vietnam War.

After his years with the United States military, Tom had a career in the roofing and construction industry. He built their current house more than 30 years ago. 

Tom and Anna spent years apart but finally reconnected, fell in love quickly, and were married on October 30, 1965. Tom was Anna's first true friend, her first date (though accidental), and her one and only love. Their marriage of 60 years was a partnership rooted in mutual respect, deep friendship, and shared adventure. 

Tom was an uncle, father figure, and grandfather figure to many. He had a way of showing up--steadfast and dependable--for those who needed him most. His quiet strength and unwavering support left a lasting impact on countless lives. 

An avid outdoorsman, Tom's love for hunting began at an early age and never faded. One of his high school escapades included getting out of trouble by telling police he was hunting birds to gather feathers for his sister's hat--a story that showcased both his wit and charm. In later years, he and Anna spent their summers in the Rocky Mountains, camping and soaking in the mountain air. Tom built a tight-knit community of fellow hunters and was a beloved figure in the archery scene in Colorado Springs, especially at the Air Force Academy and Pellegrino's Archery Hut. His presence will be deeply missed by those communities. 

Tom was also a true cowboy at heart. His love for horses led to one of his most iconic moments: returning from a hunting trip with a horse and no plan, proudly telling Anna, "Honey, I bought a horse!" From that day forward, horses became a central part of their lives. Tom and Anna owned and showed horses for decades, forming lasting friendships at AQHA horse shows that took them across the country. These relationships became a second family and continued to grow across generations. 

Tom's hobbies and interests were more than horses and hunting. He also enjoyed traveling, scuba diving, golfing, fishing, skiing, and prairie dog hunting. 

Tom will always be remembered for his deep loyalty, quiet leadership, and ability to build pockets of community wherever he went. His life was one of service, friendship, and quiet resilience. 

The world could not have asked for a better husband, uncle, mentor, or friend.

Tom Holland will be deeply and forever missed.