Thomas E Collins of Garrettsville passed away January 26, 2022. Tom was notoriously late for just about everything, but his time on earth ended too early. He was born June 3rd, 1964 in Warren, Ohio to Shirley (Marsh) and Charles Collins Jr. Number 7 of 9 siblings.
In 1986 he married the love of his life, Sherri (Seals) Collins. They shared 35 years of marriage and raised 3 children. Jessica (Brian) Zuelch of Aurora, Mitchell (Jenna Vectirelis) of Medina and Kyle Collins of Garrettsville. He loved to play with his “fur” grandkids, Sydney, Stella, Wallen and T’mir.
Tom is survived by his wife and children. His in-laws John and Karen Seals. Siblings Sherri (Tim) Boggs, Chuck (Laura) Collins, Lynne (Bill) Boylan, Mitch (Krisann) Collins, Matt (Lori) Collins, Tina (Ted St. John) Collins, John Seals, many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and one great-great nephew.
He is reunited with his parents, sisters Patti Wilmoth and Kim Seals, brother Gary Collins and nephew Jeremy Collins who preceded him in death.
Tom will be remembered for his determination and passion for making a difference. Not only locally, but globally. For over 25 years, his involvement with Cleveland Clinic Mellon Center and the National Multiple Sclerosis Foundation brought hope that maybe one day there would be a cure for MS, and a better quality of life for himself and others. He was an ardent advocate for the Earth. He volunteered countless hours with The Sierra Club and The Clean Energy movement. “Councilman Tom” loved his village. His efforts through serving with Village Council, Garrettsville-Hiram Rotary and Portage Parks District will not soon be forgotten as they can be seen all over Garrettsville. From the gardens at the entrance of the Hike and Bike Trail, lighting of the falls, to updating the equipment for everyone to enjoy in our village parks. Tom liked Cleveland Sports, THE Ohio State Buckeyes, and he loved his Garfield G-Men, especially when his kids took the field. He could always be found on the sidelines cheering “Let’s Go, G-men! And questioning a call or two. The outdoors was where Tom loved to be. Hunting, cooking over a fire, making memories at camp or enjoying a quiet evening on the patio.
Visitation to honor Tom was held on Friday, January 28, 2022 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Saturday, January 29, 2022 from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM with a funeral service following at 11:00 AM at Mallory-DeHaven-Carlson Funeral Home & Cremation Services 8382 Center St. Garrettsville, Ohio 44231.
