CATHERINE COLLINS

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Catherine Collins, who left us surrounded by her family. Catherine was born on May 18, 1937, on Fort William First Nation, where she married Peter Collins Sr. and resided until her passing on June 28, 2025, at St. Joseph's Care Group.

A devoted member of St. Anne's Church, Catherine dedicated many years to volunteering, where she cleaned, decorated, and prepared for services. She also served as a Minister of Communion. Catherine's legacy includes making history as the first female bus driver for Fort William First Nation, a position she held for 35 years until her retirement at the age of 65. Her pioneering spirit continues to inspire us all.

Catherine's profound love for her home, the outdoors, and her family was evident in everything she did. She was passionate about flowers and pursued this interest by taking a course in floral arrangement, which she enjoyed for her home, weddings, and other celebrations. Cooking and baking were also among her great loves; she often welcomed friends and family to share meals, encouraging them to help themselves when they visited.

Catherine's generosity knew no bounds. She often lent a helping hand to those in need on the streets and in stores, donating money and food or delivering meals to those unable to provide for themselves. Her kindness has left a lasting impact on our community.

Catherine is survived by her children: Sherry (Marcel), Karen (Clive), Peter (Susan), Anthony, Chris (Gord), Eve (Danny), Luanne (John), Kevin (Shannon), Georgette and Blade. She is also survived by her siblings, Eleanor (Andy), Carol (Winston), and Gordon (Melanie), along with her sister-in-law, Jessie Bannon, and her brothers-in-law, Jim McConnell and Eddie Collins Sr.

Her legacy will live on through her 123 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Catherine was predeceased by her husband, Peter Collins Sr.; her mother, Phyllis Bannon (nee Fassano); her father, Vincent Bannon; her son George Gilbeau and several other family members, including Grace and Francis Ducharme, Shirley and Charlie Collins, Regina McConnell, Paul Boucher, Howard Bannon, Phillip Pelletier, Anita Collins, Dream Skirten, Gerald Wells, Dallas Bannon and Conrad Bannon.

Prayers will be offered in her memory on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., and a funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Anne's Church.

On-line Condolences may be sent to www.blakefuneralchapel.com