Edwin "Ed" Holland
December 11, 1938 — October 21, 2024
Edwin “Ed” Holland, 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 21, 2024. He was born on December 11, 1938 to Leone and Everett Holland.
He leaves behind his cherished family, including Gloria, his wife of 66 years; his three children Scott (Kathy) Holland, Tim Holland, and Laurie Bruno; his sister Helen Van Scoyk and sister-in-law Carolyn Holland; his nine grandchildren, Jenny (Nick) Bass, Jason Holland, Jamie (Justin) Zortman, Chris Wagner, Jessica Fink, Marnie Holland, Eddie Holland, Toni Bruno, and Katie Bruno; six great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
An ethical and respected salesman, Ed built his career of 25 years at Acme Printing on trust and dedication. Ed often joked that, as a salesman, he didn’t need a suit and tie to close a deal, and that he could get the job done just as well in blue jeans. His honesty and hard work were what really mattered, and he proved time and time again that it was his character that made him successful.
Ed’s passion for thoroughbred racing was defining part of his life. He and Gloria bred and raised horses for more than 30 years. His deep appreciation for it brought him lasting friendships across ITBOA and Prairie Meadows. Ed served on the ITBOA Board of Directors for 25 years before retiring earlier this year. In his retirement Ed enjoyed gardening, coffee with the boys, playing pitch, and daily morning visits to Prairie Meadows horse barns.
In memory of Ed, contributions may be directed to the Food Bank of Iowa or H.A.R.T (Hope After Racing Thoroughbreds) supporting the work that Ed cared deeply about.
Family will greet guests on Saturday October 26, 2024 from 12:00 PM till 2:00 PM with funeral service following; located at Hamilton’s Near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313. Family requests everyone to come in their favorite flannel and pair of jeans in memory of Ed.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com
Bob and Lori Hargens
10/26/2024
Eddie was always a bright spot if our day, stopping in for a cup of coffee and a chocolate donut every morning for years. He was also a member of the coffee crew at Bob Urich's barn for years before Bob Urich passed. He was such a nice guy. I was so happy for him this past racing meet at Prairie Meadows that he claimed a good horse that gave him a couple wins and a lot of joy. We will really miss him.
Scott Weiser
10/24/2024
Ed was an active and faithful member of the Iowa Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association. Working on legislation to support Thoroughbred horse racing in Iowa was part of his leadership role and he was always willing to go the extra mile for our members.
Bob and Vicki Bertagnolli
10/22/2024
Tim and family,
Sorry to hear of Ed’s passing but he lived a long successful life. Shay’s avoided talking to him when I worked at Principal years ago. Bob and I would see him every once in a while when we went to Prairie Meadows and he always took the time to visit for a bit with us. Our prayers are with your family. Never easy though. Hugs sent