Thomas W. "Tom" Collins' Obituary
Thomas W. “Tom” Collins, age 72, passed away early Friday, April 9, 2021. He was born on January 16, 1949 to Delbert and Sara (Shanty) Collins in Muskegon, MI. He worked for many years as a Millwright and was employed at Challenge Manufacturing for the last 10 years before retiring in 2011. On September 7, 1986 he married the love of his life, Denise Laban in Stony Lake, MI. Together they cherished 34 years full of endless memories. Tom enjoyed fishing and golfing however his health issues restricted those hobbies in his later life. He enjoyed gardening, baking, and talking politics with his cousin Bill Howard. Above all things, Tom truly loved spending time with his family, fur-babies and especially his grandchildren. He was known to be a joyful man full of dad jokes, always filling a room with laughter. Tom had the kindest and most generous heart, always trying to help others. He was a tender-loving and humble soul who will truly be missed by many. He is survived by his loving wife, Denise Collins; 3 children, Andrew “Andy” (Brenda) Collins, Samantha Smith, and Cassie Collins; stepson, Micah Gager; 7 grandchildren, Amaya, Malia, Noah, Alannah, A.J., Kameron, and Adisyn; and brother, John Collins. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Thomas Collins Jr; and sister, Deborah Walker. A limited visitation of 25 people at a time will be held from 5-8:00 PM on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, April 15, 2021 at Egelston Township Cemetery, 5762 Evanston Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. Please share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?

