Suzanne was born at Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, on January 31st, 1950 to George H. Helmers and Elizabeth “Betty” Jane Aycock Helmers.
Suzie lived in the Kansas City area where she attended Sunset Hill School until her graduation. During this time she enjoyed playing field hockey for the school team, painting and drawing, and spending time horseback riding and being outdoors. She then attended University of Kansas for two years where she studied art. Following she worked at UMB bank, among others. During this time she met her husband, Walter K. Collins, and they wed on July 9th, 1977. Each brought with them a child from their previous marriages, melding them into a family. Their family later expanded to include two more children and many fur babies.
Suzie was the person you called, despite the hour, when your car broke down and you couldn’t find a ride. She was the person who escorted you to that feared doctor's appointment. She was the person that brought you that gift or sent you that card on your birthday when nobody else remembered. The person that chatted with you for hours on the phone because she was genuinely interested in your life. The person who paid the bill, no strings attached, for the meal or rent you couldn’t afford. She wanted to celebrate your accomplishments and share your sorrows. Above all she was interested in caring for you, loving you, and making sure you were happy and safe even when it meant she had to sacrifice.
Above all she was the best friend any of us could ask for. She is the glue that brings us together and solidifies us together. She is the one that opens our hearts, but also holds us steady to the ground. She embodies the good we strive for. Her journey now leaves behind her husband of nearly 45 years, Walter Collins; her sister: Gayle Vawter (Joseph); her children: Shelley Richards (Todd), Robert Collins (Nicole), Heather Collins, Christine Collins; her grandchildren: Tyler Richards, Morgan Richards, Caden Collins; and two nieces and a nephew.
