Carol Elaine Collins

Carol Elaine (York) Collins, 80, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family on September 30, 2016. She fought a courageous battle against cancer with the love and support of her family and many friends. Carol was born in Lyons, Illinois on December 20, 1935 to parents Maxine (Marker) and Robert York. She moved to Three Rivers, MI during her senior year of high school, and graduated from Vicksburg (Michigan) High School in 1953. During that time, she met Jack Collins, whom she married on July 29, 1954 at the Center Park Church in Parkville, MI. In addition to being a wife and mother of three boys, she worked full time at the Upjohn Company, retiring in 1990 after 26 years. Carol was a compassionate, generous, hard working woman. She was devoted to her family, friends and church. She spent her winters in Florida, where she and Jack had a home; and summers at their home in Three Rivers. Where ever she was, she spent many hours volunteering; cooking, sewing, organizing or just being a friend. Carol is survived by her husband Jack of 62 years; sons Gary of San Francisco, CA, Michael of Fennville, MI, and Robert (Michelle) of Vicksburg, MI.; grandson Dustin Collins, Vicksburg, MI., and her special dogs, Rusty and Dolly. Carol is also survived by her brother, Wayne York, Schoolcraft, MI, sisters, Sharon Holmquist of Caledonia, MI and Gloria (Rich) Armstrong, Ft. Meyers, FL and a special aunt, Fannie Weinberg, Three Rivers, MI., along with several cousins, nieces and nephews. Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Maxine and Robert York, and a brother, Kenneth York. At her wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be a Celebration of Life Service on Wednesday, October 12, 2016, at 11:00 am at the West Mendon United Methodist Church, 22994 Portage Lake Road, Mendon, MI. Private interment will be held at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to the Hospice Care of SW Michigan or the West Mendon United Methodist Church General Fund. Carol's family would like to extend a special thank you to West Michigan Cancer Center, Hospice of SW Michigan and Dr. David Schriemer.