Norman William Collins Sr.

Norman William Collins, Sr. CHARLOTTE - Mr. Norman William Collins, Sr., 73, of Charlotte, passed away on October 9, 2012. Born May 21, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan to George and Theresa Chornenki, Norm graduated from Tri State College on a full scholarship with a degree in Transportation Management, and later earned a law degree from Detroit College of Law. In 1962, he married and had two children, Norman William, Jr. "Jay" and Mary Christine (Clark). He had a long and productive career in automotive transportation, acquiring multiple companies under the name Coltrans, Inc. In later years he worked as a lawyer and mediator in Europe and the US. As an entrepreneur, he developed startup companies, serving most recently as CEO of CelLynx Group, Inc. Mr. Collins also served as the Executive Director of the Living Memorial Tree Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the creation of a memorial to the victims of 9/11 under the patronage of Prince Albert of Monaco. Under his leadership the Foundation planted 2880 trees that are maintained by the city of New York. Among his greatest pleasures were boating, cooking and vintage Jaguars. He spent the last ten years of his life in Charlotte, cherished by the friends he made here. Despite an engaging and dynamic career, he believed his greatest legacy to be his two children and seven grandchildren. An outstanding father and grandfather, partner and friend, he lived a life of service, patience, wisdom and strength. A man of faith, he died surrounded by God's grace. His family will receive friends Friday, October 19, from 6:30- 8:30 pm at Saint Ann's Catholic Church for a rosary and visitation. The Funeral Mass is at 10 am Saturday morning, October 20. His body will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery East. Please send memorial donations to the Levine-Dickson Hospice House of Huntersville whose doctors and nurses took outstanding and tender care of Mr. Collins in his final days. The Collins family is in the care of Gaskin Services, Matthews, where online condolences may be offered at www.gaskinservices.com.