John Collins

John Michael Collins, 66, of Curwensville, passed away Friday, September 22, with his loving family by his side. His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage and unmatched strength in facing life’s challenges.

John, the youngest of five brothers, was born on October 19, 1956, to Hugh N. and Mary C. Collins. To always ensure above all else that his family was taken care of, he worked hard in the truck driving industry until his retirement from Conway Express in 2016.

On August 7, 1982, John married his beloved wife Patricia and built a beautiful life with her filled with countless blessings.

John was a member of Noble Lodge No. 480, the Jaffa Shrine Band, Clearfield Shrine Club, Clearfield Elks, V.F.W. Auxiliary, Curwensville Moose, Sons of the American Legion Clearfield and several others. He was also a lifetime member of the Curwensville Rescue Hose and Ladder.

He took great pride in being a member of the Shriners. Most of all he loved being a Road Runner, driving children to their out-of-town appointments, even when he wasn’t in the best health himself and continued for as long as he was able.

John lived a full life as a husband, dad, brother, son, friend, but what brought him the greatest joy, “Pappy John”. He had a true heart of gold when it came to giving to others: from benefit dinners, raising money for families in need, volunteering his time for local organizations, donating meals, cooking dinners, spearheading committees, and giving the perfect gifts to his family.

John loved spending countless hours in his garage surrounded by family and friends. Sunday morning breakfasts, family gatherings, birthday parties, delicious meals, movie watching, conversations, and quality time laughing around the table were some of the best and most memorable moments.

John is survived by his wife, Patricia; his children: Dustin (Nicole) Collins of Curwensville, Jamie (Rick) Gerda of Virginia, Mark Collins of Lumber City, Spencer (Brandi) Collins of Grampian and Penni (Jeff) Muth of Luthersburg; his brothers, Jim Collins (Carol) of Colorado, and Dave (Cindy) Collins of Clearfield. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren: Kacyn Collins, Megan and Aidan Gerda, Jade Collins, Shaelinn, Devin, and Tyler Muth. John will surely be missed by Jade, his cherished Boxer who was always by his side. He will forever be in the hearts of his family who loved him dearly.

Along with his mother and father, John was preceded in death by his brothers Donald and Randy (Beaver) Collins; and granddaughters Madelyn and Makayla Gerda; and his first Boxer, Kassi.

Funeral Services will be held at the Beardsley Funeral Home and Crematory, Curwensville on Tuesday at 1:00 PM with Roger Lee McGary officiating. Internment will follow at the Mt. Zion Cemetery, Olanta.
Friends and family will be received at the Beardsley Funeral Home and Crematory, Curwensville on Tuesday from 10 AM - 1 PM.

Family suggests memorial contributions be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children.

To sign the on-line guest book go to www.beardsleyfuneralhome.com.