John W. Collins, age 87, of Grand Rapids, passed away on March 22, 2026, with his family by his side.

He was born on October 11, 1938, in Grand Rapids, to John and Zola Collins.

John married Donella Gager on June 14, 1980.

John spent the majority of his working career at IBM Corporation.

John enjoyed all kinds of fishing, golfing, watching University of Michigan sports, and attending all sports and school-related activities for his grandchildren. But his special place was spending time at the cottage with Donella, family, and friends.

He was a lifelong member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Grand Rapids.

Survivors include his wife, Donella; children, Elizabeth (Mike) Cuffman, Scott (Penny) Collins, and Bradley (Dana) Clarke; eight grandchildren—Rachel, Becca, Matt, Doug, Lucas, Brendan, Hailey, and Sydney; one great-granddaughter; and his sister-in-law, Linda Collins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donella’s parents, his sister Winnifred, his brother Tom, and his granddaughter Danielle.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Ofield Funeral Home, 4500 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Kentwood. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. (noon) at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.