John Donald Holland

John Donald Holland, 56, of Delaware, Ohio passed away from natural causes Tuesday, January 23, 2021. He was born in Columbus, Ohio and spent his early years in the North Linden area. His family relocated to Delaware County in the mid-1970s where he graduated from Buckeye Valley High School in 1983. John worked in manufacturing and the skilled trades in Florida and Ohio. He left the workforce to be a caregiver for his mother in the last years of her life. Growing up he loved sports and excelled at football, basketball, and baseball because he was fearless and had remarkable natural instincts on the field. More than once he helped lead average teams to championships and undefeated seasons. Unfortunately, as a young man he befriended people and neighbors who led him into a life of substance abuse which would eventually cost him everything he had and everything he ever could have, including the love of his life. John leaves to cherish his memory: his brother, Drew (Rhonda) of Lewis Center; beloved nephews, Brandon and Drew Joseph; aunt, Peg (Don) Hardin of Cambridge, Ohio; as well as, several cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother, Joan Holland of Delaware, Ohio; and Donald Holland of Columbus, Ohio. Due to COVID, no service is planned at this time. A gathering of friends will be held at a future date. John was a life-long animal lover; therefore in lieu of flowers or cards, please make a donation in his memory to the Human Society of Delaware County by going to www.hsdcohio.org/donate . Arrangements entrusted to the care of KINLEY Funeral Home.