Obituary of Donald Kim Holland

Donald (Kim) Holland of London passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at the age of 71. Treasured husband of Shirley. Loving father of Gwynne (Matt) Pagel, Mark (Jess) Holland all of London. Cherished grandpa of Henry, Jack, Ben and Oliver.

Kim was born in Barrie, Ontario on August 27, 1953. He was nurtured with love throughout his life by his loving family: Mom (Jean), Dad (George), and younger brother (Robert).

During Kim's childhood, summers were spent at their family cottage in Ipperwash. Kim and his brother Robert spent their days exploring the woods from dawn to dusk, only to return home because their tummies were hungry! Their Mom often worried about them, but she knew they would return home safely.

Kim’s friendship with William Ward began when the family moved to London in 1965 while attending Hillcrest Public School and then Montcalm Secondary School. A lifelong friendship had been formed.  

Kim was a studious individual who believed in lifelong learning. Kim graduated from Western University with a Bachelor of Arts Honours Geography (1977), and a Master of Science in Geography (1980).

Kim was passionate about his career at Western University, teaching first year geography courses. Students referred to him as a passionate, intelligent, caring teacher. Kim would often use personal photos taken during his travels to assist students in learning, bringing the material to life! In the later years, he transferred his skills and knowledge, taking on a role at the Centre for Teaching and Learning at Western University.

Kim's library of books was his haven. Kim was always updated on current affairs, the economy, politics and climate change. Kim was well rounded with knowledge and was always willing to share this with others. Kim would often text with Mark and Matt about investments, the real estate market and the economy.  

Kim met the love of his life, Shirley, at Ipperwash beach in 1971. Kim would often be seen on his Suzuki Scooter in the Ipperwash neighborhood during his teenage years. He happened to catch an eye for Shirley riding her 10-speed bicycle. Finally, after much effort on Kim’s part, he caught up with Shirley and the rest is history. Kim and Shirley were married on August 2, 1975 and celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary this year. They were blessed with two beautiful children, Gwynne and Mark. Kim was honoured to attend the weddings of Gwynne and Matt (2011) and Mark and Jess (2022).  

Kim and Shirley had many adventures with their children. They travelled the West Coast when the kids were young. Gwynne and Mark learned about the geography of our country including landforms, climate, geology, soils and vegetation. Kim loved sharing his expertise, knowledge and love of geography with his family. 

Another special adventure was our family vacation to Switzerland, Austria and Germany, alongside Kim’s brother Robert and wife Joyce and their children Melissa and Karen. Kim was excited to experience the total solar eclipse in Austria on August 11, 1999 with Shirley and his children. Our families had prepared a picnic lunch on the side of the road in Austria, as we watched the total eclipse together. 

Kim cherished the moments he was able to spend with his grandchildren; Henry, Jack, Ben and Oliver. Henry, our eldest grandson, brought Kim so much joy, having many sleepovers at Nana's and Grandpa's. Kim was always exploring with Henry and they both especially loved going on nature walks together. Jack, Ben and Oliver will learn more about their grandpa through the memories we will share with them in the years to come.

Unfortunately, Kim left us much too soon, but our family is thankful for the time and love we shared with him as husband, dad and grandpa.  

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Kim’s life will be held at The Elm Hurst Inn and Spa in Ingersoll, Ontario on Saturday, October 26, 2024 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm, with words of remembrance beginning at 1:30pm.  

Anyone wishing to donate in Kim’s memory, may donate to Diabetes Canada, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or to a charity of your choice.   

 “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, whereas love leaves a memory no one can steal.”