Ann Collins

She will be remembered as a strong and fearless woman who never let others tell her how to live her life. Kind to all and loved by many, she will be dearly missed.

Her story began in Moline, Illinois. She came into the world on August 9th, 1961. She graduated Rock Island High School in 1979 and in July of 2003, Ann married Gordon Collins. Though they had grown up just two blocks from one another in Rock Island and attended the same schools, their paths never crossed until later in life. They bought a home together in Aledo, Illinois, where Ann & Gordon raised a daughter, Marina, and a son, Michael. They were a close family.

Ann was a great mom. She loved her children dearly and supported them in all that they did. She taught them to be true to themselves and to always be strong. She was so proud to watch them grow into capable, independent adults.

In 2016, the family relocated to Estes Park, Colorado, where they had spent time hiking and enjoying the Rocky Mountains. She fondly remembered a hiking trip with her family on Mother's Day that involved an unexpected trek through a blizzard. Many laughs were had after a long pause with sighs of relief to be out the cold. Her favorite job was working at the local Safeway Deli, affectionately becoming known as "The Chicken Lady." Ann loved working and really enjoyed her job at the deli. She was very sociable and liked interacting with customers all over the world.

Ann loved life and lived each day to the fullest. She was a strong willed woman filled with personality. She was funny, bold and charming. Her attitude and her voice were loud. She was always happy and could take up all the space in a room in the very best way; she was really fun to be around. Ann was kind and giving and wouldn't let anyone judge her or change her in anyway. She was who she was.

Ann was a busy body. She loved "doing" and getting things done. She loved sports: Chicago Cubs, Denver Nuggets, Chicago Bears and the Broncos. She loved watching Criminal Minds, going thrifting and she loved a good deal. Ann really loved spending time with her family and friends and with her late teacup yorkie, Chika, who she absolutely adored.

Sixty-four years of life just isn't enough, and Ann deserved more than what she got. She brought so much joy to those around her. Ann was a force of nature that will carry on in more than a memory.

Fond memories of Ann and words of condolence for her family are welcome at allnuttestespark.com.