Loren Holland

Loren Dale Holland, 67, of Hedrick, died Dec. 17, 2023 following a lengthy illness.

He was born on July 16, 1956 in Simla, Colorado, to Alvin and Ruth Louise (Riding) Holland. He married the love of his life, Barbara Cook, of Ottumwa, Iowa, in 1979. They met in June, got engaged in July and married in August. Nine months later, their daughter, Angie, was born.

From a young age, Loren loved cool cars (especially Ford Mustangs) and fast motorcycles.

He worked drilling oil wells in the wilds of Wyoming, Montana and Colorado. He drove a semi cross-country. He worked in the agricultural field with decades at VisionAg. He was even the “cover boy” of a farming magazine.

Loren got his GED and later, a welders certificate from Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa.

He saved the day countless times for his wife and daughter and family and friends. He loved shooting black powder rifles.

His work ethic was second to none and no one enjoyed a cold beer as much as him.

Loren had a quick sense of humor and had a knack for making people laugh -- even in his last days, even when he couldn't speak.

He was ornery and stubborn and tried to hide a soft heart.

Loren is survived by his wife of 44 years, Barbara Holland, of Hedrick; and his daughter, Angie Holland, of Fort Madison; a flock of many nieces and nephews; and cousins. Loren was preceded in death by his parents and sister,

Celebration of life services will he held at the First Presbyterian Church in Ottumwa. Services will be updated here once rescheduled. Memorials may be sent to 301 Spring Street, Hedrick, Iowa, 52563.