Kevin McNamara Collins

Kevin McNamara Collins was born in Merced, California on January 31, 1950 to Jack and Carmel Collins. He grew up with four siblings Pat, Cate, Meme, and Ann and attended Our Lady of Mercy schools. He went on to study at St Mary's College and Dominican University.

Kevin was a builder and developer, a poet, a musician, a cowboy, and a dog whisperer who felt he was called to help people who were struggling in their lives to get back on their feet.

He grew up roping cattle on his family's ranch and loved sharing stories of the good old days. Being curious and adventurous, Kevin joined archeological expeditions in South America and dredged for gold in California and Louisiana.

Kevin was a passionate animal advocate, and especially loved raising cattle dogs. He and Moira would even drive rescue dogs all the way to Canada so they could be adopted, if they didn't adopt them themselves.

His real passion was music and was always strumming on one of his guitars, with his favorite being his Fender Stratocaster. He loved jamming with lifelong friends and making new ones through music.

A sixth-generation Californian, Kevin was a proud member and President of the Merced chapter of California Society of Pioneers. Working alongside his father for decades, he helped bring big devolvements into Merced.

In addition to a menagerie of lively pets and many friends, Kevin leaves behind his beloved wife Moira, son Josh Collins (Ally Hoyt), daughter Tiffany Hasker (Christian), and three grandchildren Jack Collins, Ruby Hasker, and Lily Hasker.

A rosary service will be held at the Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. A graveside service for immediate family will follow. In lieu of flowers, please do a kind act for someone in need. Donations to New Beginnings Animal rescue in his honor are appreciated.