About Mark Holland

Helllo, my name is Mark Holland and I thank you for your interest in learning more about me. I was born in Washington, DC a long time ago. My dad was in the United States Foreign Service, so I lived most of my growing-up years overseas. I grew up in Holland and Japan. It is a nomadic lifestyle but offers an education about the world that you can’t find in any college or university. Speaking of education, I’ve had a fine one.

I’ve enjoyed several careers. I served in the Army National Guard from 1971 to 1992. My service included some time in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during Operations Desert Storm/Shield. I worked in financial services for over 35 years and have been an educator for 15. I’ve been married to the same woman for almost 50 years and am the proud father of two grown-up daughters—and a very happy grandfather. My wife and I made
Salt Lake City our home in 1979 when we moved here from Minneapolis, Minnesota.

I have, in my more than 70 years on Planet Earth, been blessed to know the reality of God; learn the virtues of patience, perseverance and compassion; enjoy the love and loyalty of friends and family; experience the nobility of hard work wherever I have been. I’ve learned to laugh at myself and to forgive myself. The tough times have made me stronger. My life has been my schoolmaster, particularly in those times when I’ve been compelled to be humble. Above all else, I am grateful; grateful for my life and to all of you who have shared it, blessed it, and continue to do so.

Fair winds and following seas to you all.

Mark Holland