William 'Bill' Collins
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Published on November 14, 2022
Bill Collins, loving husband, father, and proud grandfather passed away surrounded by family in his home on Friday, November 11, 2022. He was 72 years old.
Bill was a man of relatively simple pleasures. He loved the outdoors, being on (or near) water, and watching sunsets. He appreciated a nice cigar, a round of golf, a cold beer, a spirited game of euchre, and spent so much time in Northern Michigan he was practically an honorary resident.
In many ways Bill was a true Irishman. He had an incredible sense of humor and an almost effortless way of making those around him laugh. But he was also a surprisingly warm, compassionate, and sensitive person. He was a man of strong faith, active in his parish and quick to support others in the community by donating his time to various organizations such as recovery court, visiting senior centers, and mentoring as a Big Brother.
Above all else, Bill was driven by an innate love of family – his own family, his extended family, and his family of friends. The early death of his father thrust Bill into a “father figure” role at age 21, and he responded by channeling his youthful rebelliousness into becoming a remarkable son to his mother and brother to his five siblings. His love of family intensified once Bill started building one of his own, and he took his role as husband and father very seriously. He was protective of and deeply loved his wife, his three girls, his sons-in-law, and his two grandchildren (to whom he was a proud and attentive “Papa”).
For someone who so disliked being the center of attention, Bill was always at the center of bringing family and friends together. He looked forward to annual family reunions, yearly golf trips to Frankfort, and “Thanksmas” celebrations over the holidays. And, since his passing, the personal memories that so many have shared are testament to Bill’s impact on those around him.
In many ways large and small, who Bill was and what he was passionate about will live on. In his wife, Cathy; his daughters, Jessica, Megan, and Chelsea; his grandchildren, Quinn, and Cole; and in his future grandchildren.
Gathering of family and friends will take place on November 19, 2022, at St. Patrick – St. Anthony Catholic Church, 920 Fulton St, Grand Haven, MI 49417, from 10:30 a.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 p.m. (Noon)
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who are able consider a donation to an ALS charity in their area in memory of Bill (Compassionate Care ALS in West Falmouth, MA, is one that Bill found helpful as he navigated his journey).
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Bill’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com.
Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006.
