Rev. Michael T. Collins, O. Praem

The Rev. Michael T. Collins, O. Praem., a priest of Daylesford Abbey, died on January 22, 2015 at the age of sixty-four. In addition to the members of his community he is survived by a brother, Gary Collins and a sister, Deborah Blahusch. Father Collins was born in Woodside, Long Island, New York on June 15, 1950. His family moved to Claymont, Delaware and Fr. Collins was a member of Holy Rosary Church in Claymont during his high school years where he attended Archmere Academy. He entered the Norbertine Order and was vested with the white habit on August 28, 1968 and ordained to the priesthood on June 17, 1978. Fr. Collins earned a Masters degree in Religious Education from Loyola University in Chicago in 1983 and continued further academic work in secondary school administration at Boston College. His entire priestly ministry was devoted to Archmere Academy where he was both teacher and Dean of Students. He was well loved by his students and over the years officiated at many of their marriages and the baptisms of their children. He returned to the abbey in 2011 and remained there until his death.

Funeral arrangements for Fr. Collins are as follows. Reception of the Body will be held at Daylesford Abbey on Monday, January 26, 2015 at 4:30 PM with Vespers and followed by the viewing. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2015 at 10:30 AM with final interment in the abbey cemetery. Abbot Richard Antonucci, O. Praem. will officiate at the funeral service. Donations in Father's memory can be made to Daylesford Abbey, 220 S. Valley Road, Paoli, Pa. 19301.