Austin, August 28, 2025
News Summary
Pete Holland, a cherished photographer and community contributor in Austin, has passed away, leaving a rich legacy of creativity and compassion. Known for his iconic photo lab, Holland Photo, he dedicated many years to capturing precious moments for families. His contributions to the local arts scene and community service, including volunteering his skills, made him a beloved figure. Survived by his loving family, his impact on the Austin community will be remembered fondly.
Austin
Pete Holland, a beloved photographer and significant contributor to the Austin community, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, compassion, and community service. Born in Liberty, New York, he moved to Austin in 1968 to attend St. Edward’s University, where he not only honed his photography skills but also met his wife, Margie.
Throughout his career, Holland made a substantial impact on the Austin arts scene. He worked as the head photographer at St. Edward’s University and later established Holland Photo in 1981, which became an iconic photo lab in the city. For nearly 25 years, he collaborated with his wife at the lab, capturing countless moments for families and individuals in the community.
Holland’s passion for photography began on Christmas day in 1960 when he received his first camera. Over the years, he developed an extensive portfolio and became well-known in local photography circles. He was an award-winning member of the Austin Shutterbug Club and actively participated in various classes and lectures.
After selling Holland Photo, Holland transitioned to a role as a tech support specialist for the Austin Independent School District, where he worked at various campuses. His commitment to supporting the community continued as he volunteered his photography skills for church events at his parish, St. Ignatius Martyr.
Known for his quick-witted humor and vibrant personality, Holland was a beloved figure in the community. He enjoyed many hobbies including gardening, connecting with local vendors at the Barton Creek Farmers Market, and attending outdoor festivals such as Austin AquaFest, Pecan Street Festival, and Eeyore’s Birthday Party. He was also known for his culinary skills, mastering barbecue and pizza and cooking for family and friends.
Holland was deeply engaged in the community, attending events at the South Austin Senior Activity Center and participating in writing classes to compile his memoirs. His love for music shone through as he regularly attended live music events and house concerts supporting the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM).
Surviving Holland are his wife, Margie, three children – Laura (Jeff) Embree, Jenny (Fernando) Melendez, and Gene Holland – as well as seven grandchildren and a great-granddaughter, along with a brother, Tom (Ann) Holland, and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations have been requested for HAAM or the St. Ignatius Food Pantry.
Visitation for family and friends is scheduled for September 2, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Homes in Austin, TX, accompanied by a Rosary service from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. A funeral service will follow on September 3, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Saint Ignatius Martyr Catholic Church in Austin, TX.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Pete Holland known for?
Pete Holland was known for his photography and significant contributions to the Austin community, including his work at Holland Photo and involvement in various local events.
When will the visitation and funeral services take place?
Visitation is scheduled for September 2, 2025. A Rosary service will follow, and the funeral service will be held on September 3, 2025.
How did Pete contribute to the local arts scene?
Pete contributed to the local arts scene through photography exhibits, volunteer work at church events, and by being an active member of the Austin Shutterbug Club.
What organizations can donations be made to in his memory?
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) or the St. Ignatius Food Pantry.
Key Features of Pete Holland’s Life and Legacy
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Liberty, New York |
| Move to Austin | 1968 |
| Career Highlights | Head photographer at St. Edward’s University, founder of Holland Photo |
| Family | Wife: Margie, three children, seven grandchildren |
| Community Contributions | Volunteered photography for church events, engaged in the arts scene |
| Hobbies | Gardening, cooking, attending live music events |
| Visitation Date | September 2, 2025 |
| Funeral Date | September 3, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Peter Holland Obituary
- Wikipedia: Pete Holland
- Dignity Memorial: Pete Fink Obituary
- Google Search: Pete Holland
- Legacy: James Holland Obituary
- Google Scholar: Pete Holland
- People: Pete Holland
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pete Holland
- Dignity Memorial: Suzanne Carroll Obituary
- Google News: Pete Holland
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
