Allan R. Holland
Allan R. Holland
June 05, 1924 ‐ February 03, 2023
Allan Robert Holland, (98), of Elyria, passed away February 3, 2023 .
Allan, was preceded in death by the love of his life, Sarena Ellen (Weislogel) Holland (2017), their beloved daughter Barbra Ann (1965), his parents Harold and Velma, brothers and sisters Natalya Hahn, John (Jack) Holland, Jean Smith, Shirley Kuenzig, Gerald (Jerry) Holland, and Tom Holland.
He is survived by sister Cathy Risley, sons Gary (Gayle), John (Mary Ellen), Paul (Janet), Richard (Lisa), and Robert (Jessie) as well as (15) grand children along with (17) great grand children.
Allan was born June 5, 1924 “on a farm” near Erie, PA. He was the third of eight children. He graduated Fairview High School (PA) in 1942 and entered the Army during World War II. He served his country for 3 years; with18 months in the European Theater with the 78th Division. He fought in combat where he was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds in battle. It was also during his active service that he earned 2 Bronze Stars for actions above and beyond the call of duty.
After returning home with an Honorable Discharge in 1946, he quickly married his high school sweet heart, Sarena (Sue) Weislogel. They moved from their hometown, Fairview, so he could attended Slippery Rock State Teachers College. He graduated in 3 years and began his career in education, teaching in Girard Schools (PA) for 7 years. During his summers, he earned a masters degree from Columbia University in New York (1954). He then returned to Slippery Rock to work at their “lab school” for a couple years. It was during this time his parents were killed in a tragic auto accident. He then took a job in Ohio, at the Lake County School office for 4 years supervising teachers. Next, Allan served 2 years at the Orange City School District. Allan then took an administrative job, for 7 years, in Rocky River as Assistant Superintendent. During these years in Rocky River, Allan earned a doctorate degree from Case Western Reserve (1967). He finished the last 10 years of his educational career as the Superintendent of the Cuyahoga Heights Schools.
In retirement, Allan stayed busy with various opportunities, from mowing golf greens, to managing the Lakewood Park Cemetery for 10 years. Of course, throughout the years, he tended to his legendary backyard and front yard gardens at his home in Westlake.
Upon full retirement, he and Sue moved to the Village Meadows in Elyria, where they lived for 16 years before moving to the main campus, Wesleyan Village where they resided until the end of their earthly days.
Allan and Sarena leave a legacy of love, family, and faithfulness. They were married for 71 years. Their example, encouragement, and wisdom will be greatly missed, but their “Circle of Caring” will live on in their posterity.
Private family services. Memorials may be made to Charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Jenkins Funeral Chapel, (440) 871-0711.
Guest Comments
Tom Tropf
Findlay, Ohio
Some say the measure of a man is the legacy he leaves once he passes from this life. Certainly this was the case for Al Holland. Service to his country; love for his family; excellence in his work. Attributes we should all strive for. Well done, Sir….well done.
Nancy (Manchester) Cederlof
Fairview, PA
Allan graduated from FHS with my oldest sister, Eleanor, in 1942. I knew him and all of his siblings except Jack! I grew up in the church where his parents were "pillars". I have deep love and admiration for that family. I am a fellow "Rock" alum and was student teaching at the Lab School the fall of 1956. My memory is not so good, but I don't remember that he was there. My love to Cathy and all of Allan's family that I did not know. SHALOM, Allan!
Cathy (Holland) Risley
Lookout Mountain, GA
A man of integrity and kindness, my brother, Allan, was a hard-working man who was always there not only for his branch of the family but also for the extended Holland Clan. He stood up for his beliefs and as an educator, encouraged all who came across his path. I am so proud of all his accomplishments and honored to be his sister. He will be truly missed, but he will always have a place in my heart.
Jeff and Paula West
Parma, Ohio
Dear Paul and Family, The Holland Family has been a rock in my life, as far as people I could always count on, friendship and Love. This Family - is to me, a Life Magazine Family. A family to respect and admire. May God continue to Bless you all. RIP Dad. Sincerely with Love, Coug and Paula
Richard Holland
Statham, Georgia
It was, and remains, a privilege being your son! Humbly, gratefully, I thank you for your love!
Aleah Holland James
Woodstock, GA
It was a privilege to be your granddaughter. So thankful that we got to learn and love by your example, and because of your service and sacrifices. We will forever miss you.
Dale "Skip" Schaefer
Harrison, OH
It was a privilege to know your Dad. He was a man of faith and conviction. My deepest sympathy to the entire Holland family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Daniel James Holland
Ridgeland, South Carolina
A genuine Legend of a Man. A man of great Strength and Tender in Heart. A Warrior in a garden. The impact he has left this world will live on for generations even with his departure. He will be missed but He is Home.