Donald Collins

April 25, 1962 – Nov 15, 2014

It is with great sadness to announce the sudden passing of Don Collins of Edmonton. He will be dearly missed by his loving spouse, Wendy Klute; parents, Patricia and Matthew; brothers, Matt (Shawna), Bill (Pam), and John (Angela); nieces and nephews, Jaymie, Dylan, Kyle, Sarah and Ethan; Wendy’s family; many dear friends and also greatly missed by Gidget and Bower.

A celebration of Don’s life will take place at Ellerslie Road Baptist Church (10603 Ellerslie Road SW) on Tuesday, November 25, 2014 @ 1:00 pm. Donations in Don’s memory may be made to Kidney Cancer Canada.

Don was born on April 25, 1962, in Winnipeg, Manitoba to Patricia and Matthew Collins.

The family headed west and lived in Regina, Saskatchewan for a short time before moving to and settling down in Edmonton.

Don was the oldest of four boys and what a great older brother he was to Matt, Bill and John. Patricia and Matthew were kept busy with the boys many sports activities. The backyard pool was a favorite gathering spot with the boys’ friends and neighbours. The family took many road trips in their station-wagon heading off camping with close friends.

Don graduated from Strathcona Composite High School. He has many long-time friends from his school days. Don was considered something of a jock and was active in track and football. He later played Huskies football. Don continued to enjoy sports both as a participant and a spectator.

Following his father’s path, Don attended the University of North Dakota. He graduated in 1988 with a Bachelor of Business Administration majoring in Aerospace Science.

Don worked for the Government of Alberta for over 25 years. He worked at the department of Transportation for over 20 years before moving to Municipal Affairs. With Don’s ready smile, easy going attitude and warm caring nature many friendships were made.

Don and Wendy met through their mutual love of baseball. They shared over 24 years together enjoying many activities such as camping, fishing, and travel. Don spent many hours during the last 13 years renovating a beautiful home which they share with their dogs Gidget and Bower. They enjoyed many energetic walks through the nearby ravines.

Don started playing ball at Centennial Park in Sherwood Park two dozen years ago. He quickly joined the league’s executive committee and soon after became league president. Don promptly set into motion upgrading and expanding the Park. His vision, motivation and hard work made the Park a much sought after ball facility. Don was always planning the next Park project; he was always thinking of what else there was to do. He leaves behind some large cleats to fill.

Don has three nephews; Kyle, Ethan and Dylan and two nieces Jaymie and Sarah. Time with Uncle Don was often enjoyed at Matt and Patricia’s house; whether the Pin Ball machine in the basement was fired up for competition or four month old Bower was chasing Sarah up the back of the sofa, or the family enjoyed one of Matt’s special grilled meals outside.

Don’s niece Jaymie was very touched by her Uncle’s recent visit. Don drove with the family across Texas to her future college in Temple Texas, to watch Jaymie play an exhibition ball game with her select team. Jaymie hit a double RBI for her Uncle.

Don had many great qualities that together made him a very special person.