James F. "Jim" Collins ,  age 82 and a lifelong resident of Elwood, passed away on Nov. 2, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family after an extended illness.  He was born on May 8, 1942 in Elwood, the son of Frank "Wilbur" and Leona Mae (Stanley) Collins.  He was a 1960 graduate of Wendell L. Willkie High School and served his country in the U.S. Air Force at the start of the Vietnam War.  Jim married his soulmate, Marilyn Sue Clouser, on Nov. 11, 1961, and they were just 9 days short of their 63rd anniversary.  While growing up, he attended Grace United Methodist Church in Elwood.  Jim worked in production and sourcing at Delco Remy division of General Motors in Anderson for 27 ½ years.  Later, he was well-known for working at Tops True-Value in Elwood for 20 years before retiring in 2022.

Jim was a member of the U.A.W. #662 in Anderson.  He absolutely loved boating and spending time on the water.  Jim owned several boats including a cuddy cabin that he enjoyed taking on overnight trips in various places.  He was very resourceful and always found ways to repurpose things.  He enjoyed watching NASCAR, MMA fighting matches, and old westerns on television.  Jim will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and "Papaw" to all his grandchildren whom he adored.

Jim's family includes his wife, Marilyn "Sue" Collins of Elwood; 2 children, Debra (Wes) Bogard of Elwood and Eric (Tina) Collins of Frankton; 4 grandchildren, Cody Bogard, Jake (Mary) Bogard, Luke (Savannah) Bogard, and Tara (Nick) Butcher; 4 great-grandchildren and another expected in April 2025; several step great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and 2 siblings, Robert "Bob" Collins and Phyllis Jo Ellis.

A memorial service celebrating Jim's life will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Rev. Tim Becker officiating.  Military honors will be conducted by the U.S. Air Force and the Elwood V.F.W. honor guard.  Burial will follow at a later date in the Elwood City Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Elwood Food Pantry or the Elwood Police Dept. Christmas for Kids program.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.