Joe Holland selected as Grand Marshal for Lind Parade

The Lind chamber presented long-time Lind resident and active community member Joe Holland with a request to be the Grand Marshal in the upcoming Lind Derby Parade.

A member of the Lind community since 1966, Holland began working at Brown Chevrolet upon his move from Chewelah. After two years working with Brown Chevrolet, Holland purchased his body shop from a resident and friend in 1968. After much needed work done to the shop, Joe’s Body Shop opened and was Holland’s main business in his 50 plus years of bodywork.

With little intention to stay in Lind upon his arrival in 1966, Holland soon fell in love with the community and residents. He quickly became very active in the community being a member of Lind Lions Club for over 40 years. He’s supported and participated in the annual derby barbeque in the park following the parades for nearly 45 years.

“Once you get going and established somewhere, you’re happy staying.” Pretty soon you meet good people that turn to lifelong friends and start a family, said Holland.

Holland established his family in Lind with two children. His son works for Central Machinery in Pasco and commutes between there and Spokane where he and his wife reside. Holland spoke very gratefully of all the help and support his son has provided him throughout the years.

Holland’s daughter resides in Spokane working as the communications manager for Northern Quest Casino with two children. Holland expressed so much love and excitement about his grandchildren and the activities they are involved in, which he is sure to keep up on. He is very excited for his children and grandchildren to visit Lind for the derby weekend and share with him, his honor of being the Grand Marshal for a community he cares so much for.

Holland spoke very highly of his close friends, community residents and family. He explained the love and pride he has for his children stating, “success in life is when you can say you’re proud of your kids.”

Currently in the shop, Holland likes to spend time casually working on his favorite Studebaker, which had been gifted to him years ago by a long time friend. He’s intended to make sure it continues to run year after year in remembrance of the love and care his friend had for the beautiful vehicle. After 50 plus years of working on cars, he has lost interest in working on them but still has an undying love for old vehicles.

Holland plans to give his body shop to his son with beliefs that he will clean it up and take care of the building.

Holland feels very successful in the happy life he has led. Turning 74 in July, he intends to enjoy himself, feel good and be happy regardless of what life throws his way. He’s expecting a “chill” summer with some possible fishing and is very excited to spend time with his family.