Thomas R. Collins

Thomas R. Collins (Tom) of Algonquin, IL passed away from natural causes on Monday, October 29, 2018. Tom was born on November 10, 1948 in Gary, Indiana. He attended Holy Angels, Horace Mann High School and Indiana University Northwest Campus. Gifted with a great sense of humor, he embraced his name, loved life and made an impact on everyone he met. Tom began working part-time for Lyttons in Gary while still in high school and eventually became the Shoe Department Manager at their State Street Store as well as J. C Penneys and Florsheim in Chicago and San Francisco. In the late 70’s Tom returned to Chicago and was part of the team which founded Der Lippizan Shoes in Evanston and Winnetka. After twenty plus years in retail and associated sales, he changed careers and became a Deputy in the Cook County Sheriff’s Department, rising to the rank of Lieutenant. During his tenure, he also worked security for Syms Clothing Store and UPS. Tom had a passion for all things Irish and was a proud member of the Emerald Society of Illinois and was a Third Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 6964. Tom’s proudest accomplishment was being the father of Sean Patrick Collins of Steven’s Point, WI and grandsons Orion Collins of Austin, TX and Kilian Collins of Milwaukee, WI. In addition, Tom is survived by brothers and sisters Cary J. Collins (Sue) of Hoffman Estates, Libby Collins Ryan (Tony) of Elm Grove, WI., Tim Collins (Alisa) of Golden, CO., Ted Collins (Palika) of Chicago, Air Force Reserves Lt. Col. Cathy Collins of Montezuma, IN, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and former wife Judy Collins of Rockton, IL. Tom was preceded in death by his parents Betty and Richard Collins of Valparaiso, IN and Brother-in-law, Warren Freiberg of Schererville, IN. Visitation will be Friday, November 2nd from 3 pm until 8 pm at Smith Campbell Funeral Home, 185 E. Northwest Highway; Palatine. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, November 3rd at 10 am at St. Theresa Catholic Church; 455 N. Benton Street; Palatine, IL 60067. Graveside service will begin at approximately 12:30 pm at Chapel Lawn Cemetery, 8178 Cline Ave, Crown Point, IN 46307. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Tom’s memory to the Emerald Society of Illinois.

Thomas R. Collins

November 10, 1948 - October 29, 2018