Michael John Collins

  Michael John Collins, Beloved Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Friend, departed on December 15, 2024, at age 79. Mike was born to his mother, Lois, on February 25, 1945, in Pueblo, CO. Mike graduated from South High School in Pueblo, earned his nursing license, and was a Respiratory Care Practitioner. Mike was a lifelong member of the Boy Scouts, earning the prestigious Eagle Scout and Silver Beaver awards. He worked as a Deputy Sheriff in the late 70's to early 80's in the medical ward of the El Paso County jail. He went on to work at numerous medical facilities, including St. Francis Hospital and Memorial Hospital, where he was the respiratory therapist on the team that set up the first NICU. Mike served with EPCSAR (El Paso County Search and Rescue) from 1988-1993 and started the explorer post of SAR. He was the first organizing member of EMTAC (Emergency Medical Technicians Association of Colorado). In addition, he taught EMT courses at Pikes Peak Community College. Mike considered himself to be a Partner in Mission at Envoy Church. He served on the Life Safety team for 15 years and founded Characters for Christ. One of his proudest roles was that of a firefighter. He was involved in fire services for more than 50 years. He retired as a firefighter with 15 years of volunteer service from Falcon Fire Dept. in 1997. He went on to fill numerous roles on the board of Falcon Fire Dept. He served as the Senior Dept. Chaplain for 10 years, as well as the Vice President of the Colorado Fire Chaplain’s Association, and was, until his death, the advisor to the Chaplain division of Falcon Fire Dept. Mike had an unwavering commitment to serving his community. His dedication to service and volunteer work impacted countless lives.

  Mike is survived by his daughters, Michelle (Sean), Shawna, Chenelle (Geno), Janae (Michael), Kacy, and Tori (Mike); 17 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Holly (Gerry), Dawn (Sam) and Heather (John). He joins his wife, Carol; son, Ben; parents, Robert and Lois; and Brother, Mark in heaven. His family will never forget his memory and strive to honor his legacy. A Memorial Service will be held on January 4, 2025 at 9:00am at Envoy Church in Colorado Springs, CO.