Elsie Kollar of Hopkins Township died Monday, March 21, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. She was 81.

Mrs. Kollar was born Sept. 4, 1934 in Kalamazoo, the daughter of Henry and Trena (Zomer) Wolthuis. She was one of 15 children.

Elsie thoroughly enjoyed being outdoors, working in her flower gardens and spending time on the farm. She spent more than 20 years camping at Jones Lake Campground, where she got to spend more time appreciating nature. Elsie also had a love for all animals. For those lucky enough to have Elsie cook for them, they got to enjoy her wonderfully prepared food.

Elsie is survived by her husband, Billy; her four children: Darlene and Ronnie Spring, Trina and Scott Beltman, Connie and Tom McBride and Krystle Wolthuis; three grandchildren: Christopher, Damien and Bradley; one great-granddaughter, Valerie; four brothers: Paul and Barbara Wolthuis, Terry and Jean Wolthuis, Jerry and Doris Wolthuis, Dan and Libby Wolthuis; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Thomas Murphy; eight brothers and two sisters.

Friends may meet with the family from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, March 24, at the Gorden Funeral Residence, Hopkins Chapel, where the funeral service will be held at 2 pm, Comer Skinner officiating.

Memorials may be made to Elsie’s family in care of Billy Kollar.