Obituary of Hollis Pence

With great sadness, we announce the death of Hollis Pence, 72, who died of Acute myeloid leukemia at Lutheran Hospital surrounded by his family on June 23. Survived by his wife Fredericka Gluck (Freddie), children Zachary and Alona, and dog Moki.  

Diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 1996, Hollis was a fighter who would stop at nothing to support his loved ones and build the life he wanted. As a teenager, Hollis worked with the Alpine Rescue Team where he responded to wilderness emergencies. He and his wife Freddie taught climbing and mountaineering skills to many groups of students ranging from adolescents to adults. In addition, they undertook numerous expeditions together throughout Colorado and the American Southwest, including rock climbs, ice climbs, backpacking, and backcountry skiing trips.

Hollis obtained his Ph.D. in Statistics from the University of Northern Colorado. Hollis had the ability to master whatever he set his mind to learn. Throughout his career in statistics, he consulted for various companies including Bellcore, Cisco Industries, Compaq, Covidien, Ford, NASA, Rockwell, Sharp, UnitedTechnologies, and numerous smaller firms. In addition to his work in industry, Hollis served as a president for the Colorado-Wyoming chapter of the American Statistical Association. In 1990, he founded his own company, the Technical Network Inc, and remained the president for 33 years. Through his work on statistical process control and design certification Hollis worked in areas ranging from microelectronics, automotive airbags, medical devices, and spacecrafts, earning several patents along the way. A lifelong learner, he enjoyed the opportunity to work with scientists from a diverse range of specializations. All of these experiences inspired Hollis to write a book to teach engineers and industrial scientists how to think statistically in a nontechnical and down-to-earth fashion. He finished writing this book, A Short Course in Manufacturing Statistics, shortly before his passing, and it is being edited and prepared for publication by his friends and family.

Hollis brought the same passion which he displayed in his career to all other aspects of his life. He enthusiastically shared his passion and knowledge of the mountains and outdoor activities. While some climbers discuss the feeling of “conquering” the mountains, Hollis knew that one never conquers a mountain. Rather they are visitors, for the mountain will still stand long after the climber leaves. This captures Hollis’s deep respect for the mountains. Anyone who traveled with him knew they could depend on Hollis to be a safe and conscientious mountaineer.

Hollis’s loved ones remember him as a mentor, consultant, lecturer, advisor, friend, companion, family man, scholar, explorer, and author. He will be missed by many.

Donations in his name can be made to Alpine Rescue Team or Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.