Donald Frederick Collier, 85, of Hopkins, died Thursday, March 14, due to a rare neurological disorder called Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP).
Born July 10, 1938, in Otsego, he was the son of the late Fred and Pansy (Clawson) Collier and was the husband of Judy Kay (Jones) Collier. Don spent his childhood years on the family farm. He went on to serve in the Army Reserves for eight years and had a successful career at General Motors on 36th Street, working as a tool and die maker for more than 35 years prior to retirement.
Don also was a volunteer firefighter with Hopkins Area Fire Department for more than 35 years. He had a heart for serving others and was always taking care of people in one way or another. Don always cleaned up everyone’s plate and was well known for his ability to nap anywhere – he was a professional nap taker.
Don enjoyed traveling, camping, line dancing and playing cards with friends. He was a lifetime member of the United Methodist Church.
Besides Judy, Don’s wife of 34 years, survivors include his daughters, Lori Saunders and Deb Stephenson; brothers, Carl Collier and Earl (Linda) Collier; and stepchildren, Tim West, Sue Ditmar, Ruth (Peach) Barttlet, Dave (Sherry) Hyde, Sue (Jeff) Modrzynski, Debra (Wade) Martindale and Shelly (Terry) Wicks. Also surviving are Don’s many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He shared a special bond with grandchildren Chris, Bobbi, Kati and Tommy along with Rilyn and Natalie.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Pansy; and his son, Kenneth Collier.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 17, at Hopkins United Methodist Church, 322 N. Maple St. The funeral will begin at 4 p.m. at the church, officiated by Pastor Kelsey French. Don will be laid to rest privately in Poplar Hill Cemetery, Monterey Township.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hopkins FFA, 333 S. Clark St., Hopkins, Hopkins United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 356, Hopkins, MI 49328.
