Obituaries

Dear Peg. My deepest sympathy. I had the great pleasure of working with Larry at Gompers/Black Hawk and always enjoyed his energy, dedication and quick smile. Thinking of you and your family. Dennis Tande

Hi! Peg & Family, It was with great sadness to read of Larry's death. We had visited him a few times in the Meadows at Oakwood. He was a good friend & co-worker, hunting partner & card buddy. Peace to All, Joan & Ray Unrein

I have fond memories of growing up in Westfield with Larry and participating in sports in high school with him. He was the ultimate "good guy ". Our condolences to Steve and the family. Gary and Marsha Alexander Wausau, WI

I was happy to hear Larry lead a full and happy life. I was a student at Sherman "Junior High" from 1967 to 1970. Larry was involved with a program for young men that had no father living in their home, and I was part of that program. I am, to this day, grateful for the relationships between my fellow students, and the staff, as well as the enriching activities after and outside of school we participated in. My life was better as a result of Larry's efforts. I really would have enjoyed the opportunity to discuss this with Larry personally had I know how to contact him. Please celebrate his life and the positive affects he had on the people whose lives he touched. Will C Sparks

My thoughts and prayers are with Peg and the family. I feel so blessed to have known and be a short part of Larry's life.

My deepest sympathy and prayers to Peg and the whole Collins family. Not all patients touch my heart like Larry did. He was a special man whose smile was sweet and kind. His quick wit had us in tears more than once in the therapy room. Praying for peace and comfort to all of you knowing all the memories with him are tucked safely in the depths of your hearts !

As Principal of Gompers Middle School is was my honor to work with Larry for 8 years. Larry was the ultimate "Good Guy." Always upbeat with a smile on his face. Larry was a great story teller with a wonderful sense of humor. He was the consummate Chicago Cub Fan. The flags of Wrigley Field should be at half mast in his honor. He and his lovely wife, Peg raised two incredible sons Steve & Michael who were students at Gompers Middle. The Collin's Family Tradition is in good hands.

Peg and family- Please accept my heartfelt sympathy. Larry was a wonderful educator and family man. I'm sure he will be truly missed. Sending you love and prayers. May Larry rest in peace.

I am so sorry to hear of Larry's passing. God Bless all of you. I will always be able to cherish the many victorious memories we were able to have . You are all in my prayers 🙏💚❤️👣

Peg, my heart goes out to you and your family. We met at Gulf Gate and you shared pictures of your new and beautiful home. I hope you and Larry had some lovely times there. Take care of yourself and your family. Grief doesn't go away, but it does lessen. Affectionately, Lois Spargo

Peg and family, We are so sorry to hear about Larry. What a great guy, with his stories, jokes and friendship he will be greatly missed. Our condolences to you all.

Peg and family, sending my sympathy and prayers. Sara Melanson Lipski

My deepest sympathy to Peg and the Collins Family. During our years as educators, I was lucky to work with Larry at Gompers Middle (Black Hawk) and Peg at Glendale Elementary (Henderson.) To this day, I think of Larry's words every time a winter storm is predicted, because he always warned us there would only be a snow day if we got "8 to 10 inches with blowing and drifting!"