Dolores Jean (Geml) Holland

Dolores Jean Holland, more affectionately known as Dorey, Dee or G-G passed away surrounded by family on Friday July 12, 2024 at home in Waterford Township at the age of 91, after a valiant battle with heart disease.

A Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother and Aunt, born April 30, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan, a daughter of Paul and Jean Geml. Dolores was the beloved wife to Raymond Holland who preceded her in death in May of 2013 after 59 years of marriage, together, they built a loving family with their seven children.

Dolores was retired after 21 years in administrative support for the Ferndale School District, the majority of which she served as the assistant to the Superintendent. Dolores grew up in a lively household in East Detroit (East Pointe) with her brothers Paul, Robert, John (all deceased) and Michael.

She is survived by her seven children, Thomas (Patricia), Allen, Robert (Mary Anne), John, James (Bonnie) Donald (Denise) and Jayne Hannington (Ian) as well as 16 Grandchildren, 14 Great Grandchildren (with twins on the way this Fall) and brother Michael and numerous nieces and nephews.

Beyond her family, Dolores had a passion for gardening, taking great pride in her flowers and the grounds around her Watkins Lake home, and many years as a member and officer of the Waterford Garden Club. Her love for nature was clearly visible with her care and attention to the many birds that graced her yard seeking shelter and substance. Her nurturing touch was evident in the beauty she cultivated and the care she took in tending to her plants. Her commitment to her family and her passion for gardening will be remembered fondly by all who knew her. In addition, she enjoyed the game of golf playing up until the Summer of 2023 at 90 years of age

Dolores's passing is deeply saddened by her immediate family and friends as well as numerous relatives who will remember her for her kindness, warmth and the joy she brought into their lives.

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, July 18, 2024 from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Coats Funeral Home - Clarkston, 8909 Dixie Highway, Clarkston, MI 48348. A funeral service will immediately follow beginning at 12:00pm. Father Scott Thibodeauis from Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church will officiate. 

The family wishes to acknowledge the care and compassion provided by Hospice of Michigan and contributions in her memory in lieu of flowers would be grateful.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dolores Jean (Geml) Holland, please visit our floral store.