John Nicholas Collins
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On Wednesday, November 10, 2021, John Nicholas Collins, passed away at the age of 86 in Littleton, CO. Survived by his son, Kevin Collins (Dawn), daughter, Kathleen Clementi (Scott), grandchildren, Jennifer Woodard, Nicholas Vidick, Christopher Collins, Michelle Totte, Geoffrey Collins and Cassidy Grohowski, as well as 6 great grandchildren. His wife of 64 years, Geraldine (Anderson) Collins and daughter, Bonnie (Collins) Vidick, predeceased him.
John was a 1953 graduate of Centennial HS and a graduate of University of Colorado with a degree in accounting. He was a fierce Marine who served proudly for 3 years. He was a licensed pilot, a practicing accountant, benevolent banker, and ultimately VP of Finance of Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina and of the renowned Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, VA where he retired in 1999 . In 1997, he suffered a stroke, but went on to live 24 more incredible years, traveling everywhere from Hawaii to Italy, chopping wood at the cabin in the mountains, running an email chain group with dedicated followers, and even teaching himself how to write and drive again. Along with his stroke, John overcame challenges that most never wish to face in their lifetime, including the unexpected death of his daughter, Bonnie, in 2013, and wife, Geraldine, in 2019. With all the ups and downs in his life, he managed to still smile and respond to every challenge he faced with a wise crack and a joke, sure to make even the most cynical smile.
In his younger years, he loved scotch and soda, a hearty steak meal, and photographing the outdoors. He was an accomplished golfer. He loved the color purple, driver's hats galore, and proudly boasting to other military members that the Marines were far superior. He enjoyed singing (regardless of whether the words were correct or not) and judging others on their lack of ability to sing. He was a God fearing man who relied on his faith to always help him find his way home, especially in his final days on earth.
There was never a stranger to John Collins. He was loved dearly by his family, associates, caretakers, and friends. There is not a single person you will run into who knew John that didn't have a story to tell about him. Whether the story was good or bad, appropriate, or not, all who have one to tell can agree on one thing- their life was better having known John.
A celebration of life will be on December 5, 2021 at St. Phillips Lutheran Church, 7531 S Kendall Blvd., Littleton, CO 80128 at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Elevation Hospice, Semper Fi Fund or St. Phillips Lutheran Church.