Roll Call Tribute

Holland James Berry 

September 8, 1937 - February 23, 2025 

It is with great sadness we said goodbye to Holland Berry of Calgary, AB, who passed peacefully on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at the age of 87 years.

Born on September 8, 1937, in Toronto, ON, Holland moved at a young age to Cromer, in Southwestern Manitoba, where he developed a lifelong connection to the area. After his time in Cromer, he lived in Virden, MB, and then spent time in Texas and Ontario before ultimately settling in Calgary, AB, in 1974. In 1959, Holland married his beloved wife, Gwenneth G. Gerrand, in Virden, MB, and they shared over 65 wonderful years together.

Holland earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Manitoba in 1960. He then continued his studies at Texas A&M University, where he obtained a master’s degree in 1966, and a doctorate in Petroleum Engineering in 1968.

Throughout his professional career, Holland held a variety of leadership roles in oil and gas in Dallas, TX, Ottawa, ON, and Calgary, AB. His work led him around the world, including Russia, Egypt, Venezuela, and China, where he played a key role in various exploration and production projects and presented at numerous industry conferences.

Holland was an active member of The Rotary Club, dedicating much of his time to volunteering and supporting communities in the Calgary area. He was also a member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church of Calgary.

He had a lifelong passion and mastery for all things mechanical, often spending time maintaining his many vehicles and even rebuilding engines. Holland also enjoyed golfing with family and friends at the Canyon Meadows Golf and Country Club, a hobby he pursued well into his later years. He will be remembered for his honesty, integrity, and always being someone others could rely on.

Besides his loving wife, Gwenneth, Holland is survived by his three sons: Craig (Dr. Jennifer Froelich) of Calgary, AB; Kent (Colleen) of Houston, TX; and Cameron (Allison) of Houston, TX. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Grace of Calgary, AB; Jessica of Austin, TX, Derek and Rachel of Houston, TX; Kathryn of Dallas, TX, and Caroline of Houston, TX.

Holland is also survived by his two brothers: Don (Joan) of Brandon, MB, and Bryon of Penticton, BC; and one sister, Joan (Peter Tamblyn) of Calgary, AB, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Holland was predeceased by his parents, Holland and Mary Berry, and his brother Douglas Berry.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at a later date.