Marian Collins

Marian Collins, 93, De Pere, passed away Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at the Jack and Engrid Meng Residence of Unity Hospice. She was born December 8, 1919 in East De Pere, daughter to the late Melford and Meta (Stephan) Desmond. Marian graduated from East De Pere High School. She married James Collins on October 23, 1943, and he preceded her in death February 6, 1976. Marian was an active member of St. Agnes Catholic Church, past president of the Ladies Society, CCD instructor, marathon bridge club and choir. She was a member of Green Bay Senior Optimist Club, a volunteer of Our Lady of Charity Guild, a member of the Red Hat Society, a St Vincent’s Hospital Auxiliary volunteer, and a volunteer with the Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts. She was a tireless caregiver, particularly during her daughter’s lengthy struggle with Multiple Sclerosis. She enjoyed her many travels to Ireland, France, Scandinavia, Mexico, Canada, and made friends in nearly every state she visited. She enjoyed a laugh and drink with her friends, especially the “Penguins”. Marian was always an enthusiastic, proud supporter for the significant people in her life. She was a Packer fan through thick and thin – never missing a game. Always the proud Irish Democrat, Marian made certain that she was able to cast her vote in the most recent presidential election and was pleased with the result. Marian’s family would like to extend our many thanks to the Unity Hospice Residence caregivers for the comfort of our mother and the support for our family. Survivors include five children: Jim (Judy) Collins, Town of Lawrence, Susie (Paul) DuPont, Portland, OR, John (Mary) Collins, Oneida, WI, Dan (Kathy) Collins, Green Bay, and Peggy (David) Collinsmith, Denmark, WI; 11 grandchildren: Amy (Dan), Tim (Jodie), Ryan, Tim (Tina), Shane, Brian (Nicolle), Sarah (Shawn), Andy, Erin (Chuck), Patrick, and Molly; 12 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Marian was preceded in death by a daughter, Jane; two sisters, Dorothy and Eleanor Mae; a brother, Robert. Family and friends may call Friday, January 18, 2013 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Cotter Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 860 N. Webster Ave., De Pere. Memorial Service will be held at 5:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home, with Fr. Patrick Beno officiating. Online condolences may be expressed at www.cotterfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established. Memorial contributions will be directed to the MS Society in memory of her daughter, Jane.