Joseph Francis Collins, Jr.

JOSEPH F. COLLINS JR. VIETNAM WAR U.S. MARINE VETERAN - 

Joseph Frances Collins, Jr., of McHenry, IL, passed away at the age of 78. Born in Highwood, IL, on December 21, 1945, to the late Joseph Frances Collins and Laurene Collins (Kessler). Joseph's life was a testament to family, faith, loyalty, and service. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Joe was preceded in death by both of his parents and his siblings: Kathy Collins (Smith). Timothy Collins, and Sallie Collins Walker (Dave).

Survived by siblings: Peggy Collins Schulmeister (Fred), Willian Collins (Rose), and Patti Collins (John Wilson); and several Nieces and Nephews; 

Joe is also survived by his loving wife, Linda Evans Collins, and her children - David Evans Jr., Renée Evans (Boyle), and Nicole Evans (DeMarco); Grandchildren; and Great Grandchildren. 

Joseph was a proud patriot who served his country with honor in the U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War from1966-1968. He returned home and pursued a career in the steel industry and retired from a long career with Mutual Coal in Highland Park, IL. 

Joe was a friend to many and enjoyed his time volunteering with the MOVE! Program that helped Veterans improve their health and their lives. Joe had many friends in the VA community and fellow volunteers at the MOVE! program. He was always generous with his time and readily available to help friends and family. 

After being family friends and young first boyfriend/girlfriend back in childhood—Joe and Linda magically reconnected. A short time after reconnecting and falling in love (again), he married Linda Evans (Witten) in 2018 and acquired a large bonus family of adult Children, Grandchildren, and Great Grandchildren, who all loved him. He and Linda traveled extensively fitting a lifetime of laughs and adventure into their years together. He will be missed so much.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at Westridge Banquet Hall, 628 E State Road, Island Lake, IL 60042, at 1:00 P.M.