Joseph Paul Collins

April 24, 1943 – April 27, 2025

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of Paul Collins, who left us peacefully on April 27, 2025, at the age of 82. Surrounded by the love of his family, Paul lived a life rich in devotion, laughter, and unwavering support for those he held dear.

Born in Campbellford, Ontario, Paul was the son of Joseph and Marguerite Collins. He grew up alongside his siblings, Connie Phillips (late Frank), the late Barbara Hill (late Peter), the late Elizabeth Dallaire (late Bert), and the late Shirley Collins. His love for a good story and a good laugh was rooted in those early Campbellford and later Peterborough days, and anyone lucky enough to hear his tales knows they only got better (and sometimes a little taller) over the years.

Paul shared 58 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Dawna Collins, a partnership built on laughter, devotion, and teamwork. Together they built a beautiful life in Oshawa where they raised three children who made him endlessly proud: Scott Collins (Tracy), Julie Pickell (Jeff), and Lisa Wight (Troy). Paul spent many hours of overtime ensuring all kids were given the opportunity to grow up travelling across Ontario playing sports and making lifelong friends.

His family meant the world to him, and nothing lit him up quite like his six grandchildren: Jack and Emerson Collins, Carson and Ben Pickell, and Owen and Chloe Wight. To them, he was not just “Papa,” he was a fixture at every ball park and hockey arena, always with coins after each event for their personal “ATM” (a zippered jacket pocket) so they could buy a treat.

Paul worked as a skilled tool and die tradesman, spending many hardworking years at Westclox in Peterborough and later at General Motors in Oshawa before retiring. He took pride in his trade and his attention to detail carried over to many aspects in his life. His hands could build just about anything, but it was his big heart and endless patience, especially with his grandchildren, that truly crafted the home and life he was so proud of.

Beyond work and family, Paul had a zest for life that was contagious. He loved hunting, his much talked about “Judge” GTO car, cruising on his Harley, passionately listening to old music with a twinkle in his eye, and always “pacing himself” so there was room for dessert. His sense of humor was a constant — quick-witted, a bit mischievous, and always kind-hearted.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and loyalty. He led by example when he taught us the importance of family and being there for each other. He will be missed more than words can express but will live on in every family gathering, every joke told, and every proud moment shared by those he loved most.

Visitation will be held at the Courtice Funeral Chapel, 1587 Highway #2, Courtice on Thursday May 1 from 5 to 8 pm and on Friday May 2 from 9:30 am until Service time at 10:30 am.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at the Courtice Funeral Chapel on Friday May 2 at 10:30 am., where stories will be shared, laughter will be encouraged, and plenty of memories will be cherished — just the way he would have wanted.

Interment Ebenezer Cemetery, Courtice.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations to the Durham Regional Cancer Centre-Lakeridge Health Corporation would be appreciated.