Gary Holland (Veteran)

Gary Wayne Holland, 61, of Holts Summit, passed away Sunday, December 19, 2010, at his home. He was born September 20, 1949, in Jefferson City, a son of Harold Loyd and Pauline (Bratton) Holland. He was a 1967 graduate of New Bloomfield High School in New Bloomfield. On April 8, 1972, Gary was united in marriage in Jefferson City, to Linda Ruettgers, who survives at their home. Gary was a computer operator and worked for Missouri Division of Welfare; the University of Missouri; and with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, where he retired as Operations Supervisor after 32 years of dedicated service. He was a veteran of the United States Army from 1969-1971. He was a member of the Christian Church. He enjoyed walking, gardening, and spending time with his family. Gary was commonly known as "The Walker" in Holts Summit, where he always made sure to smile and wave at every vehicle or person that he crossed paths with. He walked four miles every day for the past 1,868 days straight. Along with his wife Linda, Gary is also survived by two sons, Matthew Wayne Holland of Holts Summit, and Nathan Lee Holland (wife Michelle) of Jefferson City; his mother, Pauline Holland of Holts Summit; one brother, Michael Loyd Holland of New Bloomfield; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Harold Loyd Holland. Friends will be received from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2010, at the Houser-Millard Funeral Home. Funeral services and entombment will be private for the family on Thursday, December 23, 2010, at the Resurrection Cemetery Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Salvation Army, the Samaritan Center, or a food pantry of the donor's choice. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at millardfamilychapels.com