Rob Holland

The Story of Robert Anson Holland

Robert Anson Holland was born on March 13, 1962, in Flint, Michigan, to Donna (Perkins) Holland and Robinson Latham Holland. He has two amazing brothers, Brian and Anthony. From the very beginning, he took on the role of being a protector for his siblings. The Hollands relocated to Portage, Michigan in the 1970s, following his father’s career. In school he was always cracking a joke, hanging out with his friends, or playing one of his favorite sports; baseball and football. Robert was a standout on the gridiron at Kalamazoo Central High School, where he garnered attention from several colleges. He ultimately chose to further his athletic career at Michigan State University.

After his time at Michigan State, Rob ventured into the banking industry for a brief period. He then embarked on an extraordinary career in car sales, marking the beginning of a prosperous journey. During that time, he married Angela (Little) Holland and had two beautiful children; Alexis and Blake. Throughout his early years of adulthood, he steadily became one of the best car salesmen in the region. Rob became part owner of a dealership in Allegan, Michigan. Later he assumed the role of general manager at Vicksburg Chrysler, eventually joining Zeigler Chrysler in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Rob mentored many salesmen, instilling what he did best in teammates and mentees. Renowned for his genuine interest in others, Rob’s personable demeanor and unwavering commitment to customer service endeared him to all who crossed his path. Rob’s lifelong love of cars turned out to be a passion and a profession.

The one thing Rob loved more than cars was fishing. In the summer Rob could be found on the lake with his brother Brian, his son Blake, and many of his legendary fishing buddies. Rob always found peace in his boat on the water. He would gather his family and friends at his house for the best fish fries after a long day on the lake. He is also remembered for his amazing cooking skills. Many people refer to him as ‘Grill Master Rob’ and he was able to pass those skills to Blake and Brian. Rob also had a passion for music; his favorites included R&B and Jazz. His singing was legendary and beloved. Jazz music was prominent in the Holland household. Rob’s musical talents were passed down to his daughter Alexis.

Rob met Tomoko (Sugihira) Holland in 2009 at Vicksburg Chrysler. Their relationship blossomed, leading to a marriage filled with true love. On November 22, 2014, Rob and Tomoko were married at Christ Temple Church in Comstock, Michigan. Rob embraced his role as a stepfather, officially welcoming Kenny DeKilder into his loving family. Together, Rob and Tomoko enjoyed shared interests such as sporting events, live music, memorable trips, and hosting family barbeques at their beautiful home. Most of all, they enjoyed the countless sleepovers with their grandchildren watching their favorite movies and baking cookies.

Rob was a life-long supporter of the Detroit Lions and Michigan State Spartans and an active member of Recast Church in Mattawan, Michigan. Hard work and his love of God were integral to his life.

Unfortunately, health challenges compelled Rob to retire in 2021. Despite missing his work, he found solace in the increased time he could dedicate to his family while also in pursuit of his personal interests.

Robert Anson Holland passed away on Friday, January 26, 2024, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Though our time with him was all too brief, every moment we shared with Rob remains a precious gift we will forever cherish. As we reflect on Rob’s extraordinary life, may we find peace in the abundance of wonderful memories we hold dear and take comfort in the privilege of carrying his legacy forward. With each interaction where we warmly welcome a stranger as a friend or bravely confront life’s trials with unwavering faith, we honor the countless ways Rob enriched our world. In this way, we ensure that his spirit continues to shine brightly, inspiring others just as he inspired each of us.

Rob’s presence could be felt in every room he entered. His smile and laughter were contagious to all those around him. Some will remember the words of encouragement he gave on a day they felt like nothing was going their way. He was the person who could brighten anyone’s day with his outgoing, loving, and supportive nature. As a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Rob’s life inspired all fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.

Surviving Rob are his beloved wife, Tomoko Holland; two children, Alexis Holland and Blake (Carly) Holland; stepson, Kenny DeKilder, grandchildren, Amelia, Brantley, and Paislee; siblings, Brian (Loke) Holland and Anthony Holland. He is preceded in death by his parents.

A Life Story Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 7, from 5-7 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, located at 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo. For more information, please contact (269) 375-2900. Services to celebrate Rob’s life will take place at 11 AM on Thursday, February 8, at Recast Church, situated at 25120 Front Street, Mattawan. To share your cherished memories and photos, and to sign the guestbook, please visit Rob’s webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

The Man, the Myth, the Legend...Rob Holland.