Obituary of David Lee Collins

David L. Collins, 69, of Cassopolis, passed away at his home peacefully, with his loving wife of 48 years and family by his side, on Thursday, April 5, 2018.

Dave was born on September 28, 1948, and was the son of Kenneth L. and Cora (Vliek) Collins of Cassopolis, MI.  David graduated from Cassopolis High School with the class of 1966. After he graduated he joined the United States Army, was a Military Police Officer and served his country proudly for 2 years in Korea. 

On June 13, 1970 he wed Sharon Misich of Dowagiac. In 1972 Dave graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration. Dave was an agriculture salesman for many years, and had a passion for fields, yards and golf courses. Dave could tell you the weed killer or fertilizer you needed for the perfect yard.  In his later years, many would notice Dave’s obsession and meticulous attention to his lawn and property as he took pride in his knowledge and expertise.

Dave was the life of the party. He would use any excuse he could to have friends and family over to celebrate life.  Dave was an avid golfer.  He enjoyed riding 4-wheelers with his grandchildren, visits with his cousins, traveling and spending time with his wife, and traveling throughout Michigan. Dave was very proud of his family and loved them dearly.  

He was a member of several local VFW posts, the Dowagiac Moose Lodge, and the Dowagiac Moose Lodge golf league.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Dave leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife, Sharon of Cassopolis; his daughters, Kelly (Brian) Seabolt of Edwardsburg; Karen (Ryan) Smoots of Portage; Lori (Jason) Whitmyer of Cassopolis; seven grandchildren, Bret, Hunter and Melanie Tietsort; Collin and Nolan Smoots; Jackson and Colt Whitmyer; and three step-grandchildren, Brendan, Kaylee and Zach Seabolt; along with numerous cousins that he was raised with, which were more like siblings.

A Celebration of Life Party will be held at 2:00 PM on May 19, 2018, at the Cassopolis VFW, 131 S. Broadway, Cassopolis, MI.

Memorial Contributions can be made to the 525 Foundation. https://www.525foundation.org