Robert George Collins

​Robert G. Collins Sr., aged 89, passed away peacefully at home on May 10, 2023. Bob will be remembered for his good-natured disposition, sense of humor and love for his large and varied community. Born on February 24, 1934, to Brownie and Helene (Mouhot) Collins in Englewood, New Jersey, Bob was the youngest of eight children. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as by his beloved wife of 41 years, Anita (Kuperus) Collins; son-in-law, Jeff Zaremba; grandson, Scott Collins; and his siblings, Pauline Pierce, Elizabeth Murphy, John Collins, William Collins, Catherine McDowell, and Lillian Ankelien. He is survived by his children, Robert (Valerie) Collins Jr. and Mary Zaremba and their mother, Cathlyne Lawless; grandchildren, John Collins, Cathlyne (Logan) Ferraro, Rebecca (Nathan) McCarthy and Amanda Zaremba; five great-grandchildren, Lydia and Delilah Polney, Amalia Ferraro and Leah and Rose McCarthy; brother, Joseph (Dorothy) Collins; and special friend, Joan Briggs. Bob was a skilled creator and maintainer of things. He had a natural talent for mechanics and at an early age began tinkering with automobiles. While serving a gratifying 10-year assignment in the National Guard, he also worked at turning this talent into a career as a master mechanic with Chevrolet. He went on to work for 40 years at several dealerships in New Jersey. Once retired, Bob and his wife, Anita, moved to Michigan to be closer to Anita’s family. Bob lived by the motto “work hard, play hard” and in retirement was always busy doing one or the other. When not working on cars, he might be found tackling a home remodel, tending to the yard work, or helping a friend or neighbor. He found great satisfaction in missions such as rebuilding storm-damaged houses and helping at the local food pantry. In all of this, Bob’s faith sustained and inspired him. He was an active and faithful member of First Byron Christian Reformed Church. That faith community supported him well and was dear to his heart. When it came time to play, he and Anita loved to camp. They traveled the country in their motorhome, taking in the sights and visiting friends and family. He kept busy with hobbies that included his restored Model A, woodworking and carving. He was generous with his creations, often gifting carvings to someone in need of a smile or consolation. Bob belonged to many groups and clubs and loved to host and entertain. He was especially fond of his friends from the Antique Car Club, Woodcarving Group and the Men of Grace from his church. He was a natural storyteller and gifted jokester -laughter followed in his wake. He was also a beloved uncle and brother-in-law to Anita’s large extended family. He remained close to them in the years after Anita died and they learned to love him as one of their own. Please celebrate his life with us. The family will gather at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (4145 Chicago Drive) on Monday, May 15, from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Stop by anytime to tell stories and remember Bob together. On Tuesday, May 16, there will be a time of visitation at First Byron CRC (8541 Byron Center Ave) starting at 10 am followed by a memorial service at 11 am. Lunch will be served at church between the memorial service and the graveside committal. Memorial contributions can be made to Friendship Ministries or World Renew US.