Douglas Eugene Collins

Collins, Doug E. – of Arcadia, Florida, formerly Birch Run, age 88, peacefully passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at his residence. Honoring his wishes, cremation will take place. No services at this time.

Doug was born April 20, 1936, in Clio, Michigan, to the late Harvey and Rhea Collins. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Doug served as an Airborne paratrooper from 1954 to 1957, exemplifying bravery and commitment. Following his military service, he moved to Birch Run, where he began a new chapter in his life, raising his family while establishing Collins Excavating, a business he owned and operated from 1965 until 1994. In 1995, Doug and his wife, Rita, embarked on a new adventure, relocating to sunny Florida. Here, Doug found joy in the simple pleasures of life; he could often be found tending to his plants and flowers, taking pride in his yard. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was savoring a cold glass of lemonade, watching Sunday football, or spending time hunting and fishing. He cherished his family and was immensely proud of each and every one of them. His spirit, filled with his stubborn determination and zest for life, will forever be remembered.

Surviving are: Wife, Rita Collins: Children: Cynde Collins-Linder, Douglas Collins, Melissa Collins (Al Marr); Step children: Dawn (Dave) Dixon, Amy (Wayne) Kelly, and Glenn (April) Alexander Sr.; Granddaughter, Lacie Collins (TJ Collick); Step grandchildren: Alex Olson, Aaliyah Dixon, Haley Kennard, and Glenn Alexander Jr; Step Great grandchildren: Grayson Alexander and Aizlynn Wilber; Many nieces and nephews; and good friends. He is preceded in death by Father, Harvey Collins; Mother, Rhea Collins- Jackson; Stepfather, Rev Thomas Jackson; Brother, Harvey Collins, and Stepsister, Susan Kaminiski.