Douglas Recor Collins

Douglas R. Collins passed away suddenly on October 14, 2024.  Per Doug's wishes, Cremation has taken place at Memorial Fields. Doug suffered a heart attack while doing what he loved best: riding his bicycle in the countryside on a beautiful autumn day.   Despite the wonderful efforts of the physicians and staff at MyMichignan Medical Center-Alma, he was not able to pull through.

Doug was born on January 26, 1954, in Oakland, California.  He lived in Mt. Pleasant for most of his life, and attended Mt. Pleasant Public Schools.  He attended Kellogg Community College and Hope College and obtained a bachelor's degree at Western Michigan University.  After graduation, Doug worked as a computer programmer in Port Huron, Michigan, and later at Central Michigan University. The fact that Doug obtained a college degree and participated in the workforce was a wonderful accomplishment.  He was an albino and had limited vision, and also was on the autism spectrum with Asperger syndrome. Doug worked hard at many things that most of us take for granted, and we are very proud of him.

Doug's Christian faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was fortunate to find a welcoming and loving church family at Faith Lutheran Church in Mt. Pleasant.  The church was so very important to Doug for many years.  Doug's family is very thankful for Faith Lutheran.  Doug was also committed over many years to donating blood.  He often rode his bike for miles to donation sites around the area.  The family held a celebration for him when his contribution total reached 200 pints.

Doug was predeceased by his parents, William Larry Collins and Donna Collins.  He is survived by his brother William Collins and sister-in-law Dorene Allen of Midland, and by his brother Peter Collins and sister-in-law Mary Collins of Ann Arbor.  He is also survived by nephews Christoper and William James, and by nieces Adriana, Natalia, Bianca and Juliette, and by six grand-nephews and grand-nieces.

A memorial service celebrating Doug's life will be held at Faith Lutheran Church in Mt. Pleasant on Friday, November 8, 2024. Visitation will be from 3:30 to 5 pm, with a memorial service at 5 pm followed by a dinner at the church.  Those who would like to make a memorial contribution in honor of Doug are asked to consider Faith Lutheran Church.