April 28, 1942 - January 20, 2021
Chula Vista
Michael Joseph Collins (Coach Collins) died at home in Chula Vista, on January 20, 2021 at the age of 78, after a three year battle with Lewy Body Dementia.Mike was born on April 28, 1942 in San Diego to John William Collins & Patricia Jean Dale. The oldest of six children, he was a long-time resident of Chula Vista, and had a thirty-nine year career at Chula Vista High School beginning as a student in 1957. He played football, basketball, and golf and in 1959 he participated on the Metro League Championship varsity basketball and football squads. Mike graduated from San Diego State University with a B.A. in social science in 1965. While at S.D.S.U. he played three seasons of football under Coach Don Coryell (1962-64). He also received his M.Ed. from Northern Arizona University in 1968. His teaching career at CVHS began in the fall of 1966, where he spent many years teaching U.S. History.Coach Collins began his basketball coaching career in 1969 and in two seasons his JV teams won back to back titles. In the spring of 1972 he moved to the varsity level, where he coached and influenced the lives of young men for over 30 years. He is the 6th winningest coach in San Diego County, with 490 wins. His successful tenure earned him eight Metro Coach of the Year awards, ten Metro Championships, 15 SDCIF playoffs, 4 Final Four appearances, and a spot in the San Diego Hall of Champions.After retiring from teaching and coaching, Mike enjoyed golfing, camping, and especially fishing in the High Sierras. He and his wife Janet held San Diego State Football & Basketball season tickets, and could often be found rooting on their favorite team. The two also found time to travel to visit their grandchildren and destinations around the world.Mike is survived by his wife of 54 years Janet; daughters, Cathy Longoria & husband A.J.; Diana Betten & husband Steven; 6 grandchildren, Joseph, Courtney, Jacob, Gavin, Lauren, and Sofie; brother John Collins (Vivian), sister Candy Crow, brother Shane Collins (Cheryl); sister Cherie Pimentel (Bruce), and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents John Collins & Patricia Collins Youmans and his brother Kelly Collins.A memorial service will be held at a future date when it is safe for all to gather and celebrate the life of this amazing husband, father, and friend. Our family would especially like to thank Rosemarie Ramos & Peace & Comfort Hospice, Apreva Hospice, Accent Care, & Coast Care for their care and dedication.
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Published in San Diego Union-Tribune from Jan. 23 to Jan. 24, 2021.
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