In Memory of Michael R. Collins

Michael R. Collins, age 71, of Ida Grove, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at his residence of Ida Grove, Iowa.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Ida Grove, Iowa. Father William A. McCarthy will officiate. Committal Services will follow in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery of Ida Grove, Iowa, with Military Rites conducted by the McNamara-Moore Post No. 61 of the American Legion of Ida Grove, Iowa.

A Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a Rosary Service at 6:45 p.m. and a Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, February 27, 2023, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Ida Grove, Iowa.

The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Ida Grove, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.christensenvanhouten.com

Michael Raymond “Mike” Collins, the son of Luella (Kurth) and Patrick Collins, Jr., was born on October 24, 1951, in Ida Grove, Iowa. He received his education at Ida Grove High School graduating with the class of 1969. After high school, Mike joined the U.S. Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War.

On June 12, 1971, Mike was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Connie Venteicher, at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Danbury, Iowa. While Mike was stationed in Arizona, the couple welcomed the birth of their twin daughters, Melanie and Michele. Upon his honorable discharge from the service, the family moved back to Ida Grove where Mike began working for United Builders. The couple was blessed with two more children, Melissa in 1977 and Justin in 1979.

In 1988 Mike began his 26-year career with the Ida County REC. He served as the warehouse supervisor until his retirement in 2014. Needing to stay busy during his retirement, Mike began working as a hired farmhand for his friend, Richard Schmidt, until 2023.

Mike was an active member of the community. For 32 years he was a volunteer fireman for the Ida Grove Fire Department and served as the fire chief for 10 years. He was a member of the McNamara-Moore Post No. 61 of the American Legion of Ida Grove where he held the offices of Adjutant and Commander. Mike was also a member of the Sons of the American Legion and the current board secretary of the Skate Palace.

Mike was kind, generous, and often mischievous, especially in his younger years. He was always the first to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He was a “go to” guy for all, especially for his grandchildren when they needed help or advice. Mike enjoyed deer hunting with his son, brother, grandsons, and friends. He was an avid NASCAR fan, especially cheering for #48 Jimmie Johnson, and he rarely missed watching a race with his family. He even attended several races in Kansas City.

“The farm” was always a gathering place for Mike’s large family and something he was very proud of whether he was tinkering on his tractors, tending to his garden, or caring for his animals. He enjoyed having everyone over to help with projects, have some good food and some laughs while on the deck or around a bonfire.

Left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 51 years, Connie Collins of Ida Grove, IA; children Melanie Meyer of Ida Grove, IA, Michele (David) Nelson of Ida Grove, IA, Melissa (Joe) Newman of Lawton, IA and Justin (Nicole) Collins of Ida Grove, IA; 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren with 2 on the way; brother Dennis (Becky) Collins; sister Diane (Ed) Lampe; sisters and brothers-in-laws Betty Mathew, Lou Venteicher, Joan (Bob) Bengford, Larry Venteicher, Judy (Dan) Busch, Leon (Sandy) Venteicher, Jim (Becky) Venteicher, Ken (Debbie) Venteicher and Becky (David) Whited; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Luella and Patrick Collins, Jr.; father and mother-in-law Raymond and Rita Venteicher; brother-in-law Dean Venteicher; and extended family.