James Richard Collins

James “Jim” Richard Collins, of Grasston, Minnesota passed away on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Cambridge Medical Center. He was 79 years old.

Jim was born in St. Paul on July 7, 1945. Jim’s family lived in St. Paul and California before settling in Lexington, Minnesota. Jim graduated from Centennial High School in 1963. He joined the Army in 1965 and was stationed in Germany for two years. Upon his return, Jim worked for the railroads before establishing his career at Midwest Asphalt Corporation where he worked until he retired.

Jim enjoyed being outdoors.  He loved taking walks with his dogs in the woods, gardening, baling hay, and his ongoing battle with the local beavers on the placement of their dam.  Jim also enjoyed working on his vintage tractors and farm machinery as well as attending farm auctions and threshing shows whenever he could.  He loved playing with his grandchildren and was particularly happy to be blessed with grandsons after being saddled with three daughters. 

His departure leaves behind a legacy of joy, a toolbox of memories, and he will be greatly missed.  We are comforted knowing that he is being welcomed into heaven by the sounds of the many paws and hooves running towards him from his beloved animals that have passed before him. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents William and Marcella (Carter) Collins and brother Roger Collins.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Kelly (Lowell) Samuelson, Kristine (Todd) Kobienia, and Amanda (David) White; grandsons Elias and Adam Kobienia, Henry and Oliver Samuelson; brother Denny (Brenda) Collins; and his beloved dog Lady.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held Friday, May 2, 2025 from 4-6 PM at Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home, 311 Ashland St S, Cambridge MN.

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