Obituary

Mark Allen Holly, age 62 of Buckeye, AZ died November 16, 2018, in Sun City West, AZ.  He was born April 10, 1956, in Phoenix, AZ.  Mark grew up in the west valley in Arlington and Litchfield Park. He attended Agua Fria High School where he was involved in several extra-curricular activities including being a member of the debate club and an alto sax player in the Band of Owls.

Mark had several careers in his 44-year work history.  He enjoyed serving the citizens of Arizona as insurance claim liaison at the AZ Department of Insurance for five years, however,  it was his love of dogs that led him to become an entrepreneur.   Ever since he was a child, Mark loved dogs.  His passion for dogs was rediscovered when he became a part-time dog trainer at PetsMart. During his time at PetsMart, he trained dogs, trained trainers and ultimately became Regional Manager of Training. 

After several years there, Mark decided to branch out on his own and started House of Hounds, his own dog training business in Buckeye.  He enjoyed working with timid or shy dogs as he said they needed more love and help than confident dogs.  He later branched out into retail and became the 10-year business owner of Dogs Etc., most recently located in Old Town Scottsdale.  Mark always said it is important for dogs to be trained to become well-behaved and beloved family members. He never met a dog he didn’t like!  

Mark loved Broadway musicals and national touring companies but he also was an avid supporter of the many wonderful local theater companies and productions here in the Valley.  In community work, Mark served on the Buckeye Cemetery Committee and as president of the Fifth Avenue Merchants Association.  He loved life and cherished his family and friends.  He will be sorely missed.

Mark is survived by husband Nick Buta and mother Marjorie Compton.  He was preceded in death by father Sam and brother Stephen.