From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Kirkland,WA

Mari Lou Holland reached out to the PNWGPG to provide the following update on Joel Holland. After a year of battling cancer, the medications are no longer working. Joel has made the decision to go into hospice. The Doctor gives the prognosis at 1 week to 1 month. Our thoughts are with Mari Lou and all of the Holland family during this difficult time. See below if you would like to send a photo or video tribute.

[Last edit: 10/18/26 2:40:23 AM]

10/15/2026 12:32:14 PM

Grittyville, WA

Sorry to hear, it was always a good day when he was at the weigh off.

10/15/2026 3:03:40 PM

Nova Scotia

Oh no? So sorry to hear this about Joel. Will keep him and his family in our thoughts during this difficult time. The Dill Family

10/15/2026 3:12:37 PM

C N Y

I don't usually know what to say and this really has my arms folded with barely anything reassuring to type, so, I just hope he gets, and I know he will, the best care possible and the support in return for what he has given thousands of growers and folks over the many years of his legendary reign as a Pumpkin Hero - the nicest guy anyone could ever know. Pumpkin Power to you, Joel! eric g

10/15/2026 5:44:40 PM

Upa Creek, MO

My condolences to him and his family.

10/15/2026 7:01:55 PM

Connecticut, USA

Very sad to hear this news. We will keep Joel, Mari Lou and family in our prayers.

10/15/2026 8:51:03 PM

Penryn California

Joel is a legend in California having won half moon bay 7 times. He has always been generous in supporting the California Club. We wish a peaceful time for him and the family. With prayers....

10/15/2026 10:05:22 PM

Europe , slovenia

My prayers to him and all of his relatives.

[Last edit: 10/17/26 7:09:45 AM]

10/16/2026 8:55:21 AM

seattle

I'm sorry to read this Mari lou. My thoughts are with you. Duncan

10/16/2026 10:34:41 AM

Mi.

Sorry to hear this prayers sent

10/16/2026 1:12:07 PM

Cheshire Ma USA

Sorry to here this , he has contributed much to this growing community, especially in the early days. Joel and his family will be in our prayers.

10/16/2026 8:23:28 PM

Lloydminster/AB

Joel helped me more than he knows. There are lots of growers that will say the same.
I'll be forever grateful. The world is a better place for having him in it.

10/16/2026 10:04:45 PM

Thoughts and prayers for Joel and his family.

10/17/2026 6:40:13 AM

1487

Dear Joel and Mari Lou,

It breaks my heart to read this news. Sending you both a big, heartfelt hug from Spain.

[Last edit: 10/17/26 2:51:56 PM]

10/17/2026 2:33:41 PM

Bethlehem CT

Sorry to hear this. Sending myPrayers for the holland family.

10/17/2026 9:47:12 PM

Kirkland,WA

*******Photo / Video Tribute********** We have set up a way for anyone to send a photo or video tribute to the Hollands. There is a mobile app called Frameo. If you download the app, set up an account, then use code 7222143487 you will be able to send a photo or video directly to the Hollands!

10/18/2026 2:39:40 AM

Grittyville, WA

Thanks Geoff. Ps, I think Joel still has the WA state record at 2363. I dont know if he will read this but... You're a hero for other reasons too, Joel. I think he knows this perfectly well already, but I need to say it.

10/18/2026 10:42:38 AM

Littlerock, WA

The GPC sends our deepest condolences to MariLou and the Holland family. The giant pumpkin community lost a legend today.

10/19/2026 1:15:02 AM