Donnie Collins

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Donald "Donnie" Francis Collins, 66, on June 6, 2026. Born on December 14, 1959, Donnie was raised in Rock Island, Illinois, the son of Esther “Sue” (Kirby) and Philip “Jack” Collins. He graduated from Alleman High School and continued his education with an Associate’s Degree from Iowa Western Community College, later earning his Bachelor’s degree from St. Ambrose College.

In his younger years, Donnie was a standout on the baseball field, a high school star whose talent had many believing the big leagues were within reach.The Cincinnati Reds showed interest after he was invited to their training camp at 17 years old. Life took a different course, bringing hardships that tested him deeply. Yet Donnie’s story was also one of steady courage and quiet renewal—made possible through the love and support he found in AA, and through the way he chose, day by day, to keep going.

Throughout his working life, Donnie took on a variety of roles—processing agent for Dewco, construction worker, and pet care coordinator for Quad Cities Pet Cremation. No matter the job, he brought a full measure of care to the people around him. He was the kind of colleague others trusted, the kind of presence that made a workplace feel more human, and the kind of person who gave more than was ever asked.

In 1998, Donnie married Jodie Sigler at the courthouse in Rock Island, IL. Together they welcomed a beloved son, PJ. Donnie and Jodie later divorced.

A loyal sports fan, Donnie followed the Cincinnati Reds, the Green Bay Packers, and the Chicago Blackhawks. He especially enjoyed talking sports with PJ and watching him play Dek Hockey.

Besides showing up for his family, it was in his community that his heart showed itself most unmistakably. Donnie made a lasting impact as a sponsor to many, offering guidance and steady companionship through some of life’s hardest hours. He would go out at any time of day or night when someone called needing help—an act of selflessness that was not occasional for him, but simply who he was. Warm, welcoming, and deeply kind-hearted, Donnie had a way of making people feel seen and safe in his presence.

Those left to honor Donnie’s memory include his son, PJ Collins; daughter, Kellie (JD) Chapman; siblings, Barbara Wineger, Mark (Kathy) Collins, Carol (Duane) Cisco, and Susan Collins; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved AA family and friends. Donnie was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Michael Collins.

Visitation will be held at Weerts Funeral Home, 3625 Jersey Ridge Rd, Davenport, IA 52807, on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm. A Celebration of Life Service will begin at 12:30 pm with a reception to follow.

Special thanks are extended to Tommy Broders, Pat Goodall, and Chuck Devore for their help, guidance, love, and support.