It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Kevin Collins, 77, of Sturgeon Bay, on December 15, 2025.
A devoted husband, father, brother and son, Michael passed away peacefully after a year-long battle with brain cancer.
Michael Collins was born May 29, 1948, in NYC to Vincent Joseph Collins, MD and Florence Mary (née O’Mara). Michael grew up in Tenafly, N.J., and Winnetka, IL and graduated from New Trier High School in 1966. Mike was renowned as a talented and tenacious runner who won the Illinois State Cross Country Championship in his senior year. He tallied up so many prestigious track and cross-country accolades that several universities tried to lure him with full-ride scholarships. However, it was the University of Notre Dame that won his heart, his athleticism & work ethic. Graduating from Notre Dame was the educational springboard for Mike that launched his career pursuits. Mike later earned a Master’s Degree in Health Services Administration and specialized in setting up and managing large hospital telecommunications systems, eventually shifting his focus to the federal government and international corporations.
At the same time, Mike enjoyed coaching and working with high school athletes, while completing a Master’s Degree in High School Education. He spent 12 years teaching Chemistry and Biology, as well as coaching cross country at Rancho High School in Las Vegas, NV. In 2019, he retired and moved back to the Midwest, settling in Sturgeon Bay, WI, where he coached the Southern Door Eagles for 5 years. In addition to coaching, Mike was an accomplished marathoner and triathlete for over 40 years. More recently he could often be seen swimming laps at the Door County YMCA, as well as the brisk waters of Lake Michigan right outside his door. During 40-plus years of coaching, Michael motivated and inspired countless young runners not only to do their best, but to support each other. From the slowest to the fastest, he emphasized what he called “the joy of running.” This was the same attitude and dedication he brought to his whole life, highlighted by kindness, humility and gratitude.
Michael will be sorely missed by those who knew and loved him. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Florence and Vincent, his son Ryan and sister Katherine C. Hunt. He is survived by his wife, Mary Seiler Collins, brothers Gregory (Michèle), Vincent (Sandi O’Day) and Peter Collins, sisters Patricia (Ed Bancroft), Maryclaire (George Lutz), and Delia, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
A private memorial service will be held in the Spring of 2026.
To help cherish his legacy, please share memories and photos at forbesfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please support the Misericordia Foundation, where Michael’s sister Delia lives in Chicago.
