Michael Francis Collins

Michael Francis Collins, aged 78, passed away Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Born August 9, 1946 in Athens, Ohio, he was the son of the late Kenneth W. and Donna M. (Francis) Collins.

A 1964 graduate of Athens High School, Michael completed his Bachelor’s degree in education at Ohio University. He worked as a teacher and coach at Federal Hocking High School in Athens County before moving to Belgrade, Montana. There he continued his teaching and coaching career at Belgrade High School where he eventually retired. Michael was a much beloved teacher and shared many happy memories of all his students, many of whom he still kept in touch with. An avid outdoorsman, Michael enjoyed fishing, hunting, and golfing in Montana. He also loved sports, having been a lifelong Cincinnati Reds fan as well as a fan of the Montana State University Bobcats.

Michael is survived by his brothers, Kenneth Collins of San Antonio, Texas and Robert Collins of Athens, Ohio; sister, Cathy Duke of Logan, Ohio; several nieces and nephews, including Andrew (Lindsey) Perry of Logan, Ohio, Anthony (Keely) Perry of Pataskala, Ohio, and Erin (Lance) Spires of Logan, Ohio; and many special friends in Athens and Montana, all of whom meant the world to him.

Besides his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his cousin, raised as his sister, Jeanne Francis Henderson.

Per Michael’s wishes, no services will be held at this time. Immediate family will, however, hold a private memorial in Belgrade, Montana at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Michael’s family suggests donations in his memory may be made to Belgrade High School Athletic Boosters at belgradeboosterclub.com, or the Trout Unlimited Madison-Gallatin Chapter in Bozeman, Montana, http://www.mgtu.orgchapternumber24.

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