Seven years after the death of Marley Holte, the group that has continued to organize the annual Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners announced this year’s gatherings will be the last ones.
The following is a letter from the board of directors sent to the Free Lance:
The Board members of the Marley Holte Holiday Dinner regretfully announce that the Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners will be the last dinners served. After a long and conscientious process of debate and discussion, the Board members have concluded that this will be the last year. We gratefully appreciate the support we have received from the Community (and still need your support it to make it through this holiday season!). There are so many to thank that there isn’t room here to list them all now, but we will write a letter to the Editor after Christmas.
Marley Holte and his wife started this tradition around 1985 one holiday season when they decided not to buy each other gifts, but instead to provide meals for those who either could not afford it or just wanted some companionship during their holiday dinner. It blossomed to a point where one year over a 1000 people were fed! After Marley passed away in 2006, Board members decided to carry on the tradition. During his career, Marley was a teacher at R.O. Hardin School, Principal at Rancho San Justo School, then became a Realtor opening Holte Crown Realty in 1994. He was also Mayor of San Juan Bautista, served on their Planning Commission, served on many different commission and Boards ( including Hollister Parks and Recreation, Little League, 33rd Ag. District, Rotary Club, served as President of LULAC, and more! ). He received many awards including “Realtor of the Year” in 1993 and LULAC’s “Outstanding Man of the Year” in 1996.
It was his dedication and commitment to this Community that has served as a role model for so many that knew him.
As in the past, if you wish to contribute to the dinners or wish to volunteer, please contact Larry brown at 831-637-9037.
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