John Edward Collins

John was born on June 9, 1938 in Youngstown, Ohio. He is preceded in death by his mother Mary Dailey, his father Patrick McGarry, his sister Mary Patricia Collins, and his brother Patrick McGarry. He is survived by his wife Mary, his four children, Trish Vames, John (Tresa Todd) Collins, Gregory (Mandy Vitzthum) Collins, and Michael Collins along with 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

John married his high school sweetheart. Together, they celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary on October 25, 2024.

John and Mary started their family in Rootstown, Ohio, before moving to Las Vegas in 1971. John quickly adapted to desert life, buying a dune buggy and off-road bikes for the kids. The Mint 400 became an annual tradition, with John loading up the Dodge Maxi Van with his children—and any neighbor kid who wanted to join—for a day at the races. Family vacations became an adventure of their own especially the year they traveled to Snake River Canyon to watch Evel Knievel attempt his legendary jump.

John built his life around the lumber business. He started his career at Wickes Lumber in Ohio and later moved to Las Vegas to work at Houston (Home) Lumber. His work opened the door to his true passion: building.

Everything changed when John and Mary purchased land in Calico Basin to build the home they had always dreamed of—complete with a porch and a swing. With the help of friends, neighbors, and his sons, John turned their vision into reality, crafting what would lovingly become known as “The Ranch.” It featured both a front and back porch, each complete with a swing—two in total. It was a labor of love, and every detail reflected John’s dedication and devotion.

John filled his days with simple joys—wiener roasts, desert hikes, and fixing things. But everything shifted again when the grandchildren arrived. John became “Papa”, and he embraced his new role with a vocational dedication. He could often be found with a baby strapped to his back, another nestled against his chest, and a pacifier tucked in his pocket. As more grandchildren joined the family, they eagerly followed him wherever he went, trailing behind through the desert like baby quail.

John was a proud member of a motorcycle gang, affectionately named “The Old Geezers.” Together, they cruised through desert towns and California forests. He also had a deep passion for collecting cars—some he loved to drive, others simply to admire. He kept a collection of at least 22 vehicles at “The Ranch”.

A few years ago, John and Mary moved to Pahrump, NV to live in another house he built with another car collection, and, most importantly, another porch with a swing.

Services will be private.