Michael Collins

Michael was a volunteer in my classroom. He helped my special needs students with math, reading and writing. I enjoyed working with Michael, especially the conversations we'd have after the students had left. I am so glad that I was able to work with him, my life and my students were enriched because of him.

I have just learned of Michael's passing. Truly sorry that he is gone and would like to express my sincerest condolences to his family. Michael volunteered in my classroom at Davidson Middle School. My students had special needs and he helped them in the areas of reading and math. It was a pleasure and honor to work with him. I enjoyed our short talks during the passing periods. I have thought of him fondly over the years. My students and I were blessed to have had the pleasure of working...

I am just now learning of Michael's passing, and I send my thoughts and best wishes to all his family, but especially to you, Laura, who have been almost as much a part of CCA-North as Michael has been over the years. He served as our treasurer for many years, but, more important, he was a constant source of inspiration for all of us as he shared his love of the classics and of music. His workshops on Gregorian chant were always popular with California JCL students at our conventions; we all...

I am proud to say that I Mike was a colleague at Drake HS. He was always
"even-keeled". Rest in peace.

I was lucky enough to take four years of Latin with Mr. Collins at Redwood 1992-1996, which sparked my lifelong interest in Roman culture and mythology. He was a wonderful, kind and memorable teacher who, in addition to guiding us through translations of the Aeneid and other works, kept class lively with regular Gregorian chants, viewings of the pivotal final scenes of Gunga Din, and jokes told in Latin. He was also our Model UN advisor and I have fond memories of trips to conferences in...

Mr. Collins was always such a bright light at Redwood High School and beyond! I was so thrilled to be able to see him again (not terribly long ago) when briefly singing with the Schola Gregoriana. It filled my heart to see him again! Now I know, with full faith and confidence - that he is singing alongside the angels and Saints in God’s Heavenly Kingdom! Thank you for all you gave while on your earthly journey, Mr. Collins! Hope to see you again in heaven someday!

The Reilly cousins offer condolences and latent unexpressed appreciation for the legacy brought to our family gatherings by Michael’s beautiful singing voice, which he was always willing to share. I still hear him now.

Bill Reilly’s daughter, Kathie Reilly

I had Mr Collins for French at Redwood in the early 90’s. I used to love it when he would sing Barbershop for our class. Rest In Peace, Missieur Collins.

I’m so sorry for your loss. My late twin sister and I were friends with Katie and Danny back in high school.