Paul Collison Obituary
He is survived by a spouse, Mary Jo Collison; a son, Brad, of Billings, Mo.; a daughter, Brenda, of Springfield, Mo.; a stepson, Monty Burke, of Kimberling City; four grandchildren; one great-grandson; and a sister, Connie Wisch, of Kearney, Nebraska.
He graduated from University of Nebraska at Kearney where he was an outstanding member of the Basketball Team. He set several school records for rebounding, which still stand today. In 1998 he was inducted into the UNK Athletic Hall of Fame.
Paul coached High School sports and taught Vocational Education in Nebr. Later he was a contractor, building and remolding homes.
He was an avid Nebraska sports fan and enjoyed vatching the Big Red Huskers.
He retired to the Table Rock Lake area in 1991. Paul was a Follower of Jesus Christ, a member of the Kimberling United Methodist Church and an active participate in the Show Me The Way-Walk to Emmaus.
A celebration of Paul's life will be Dec. 12, 2010 in the Kimberling United Methodist Church at 2 p.m., with a reception following. Memorials may be made to Kimberling United Methodist Church or Hospice Compassus of Branson.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jess and Phyllis Smith Retired Colorado State Trooper
April 5, 2023
I went to high School at Big Springs , Ne. I was a TROJAN player . I played varsity with Paul as the coach , I admired him SO MUCH . I am sorry I did not try to reach him much sooner . I moved back to my home town of Julesburg, Co. in Jan. 1983 . He asked me if I wanted to drive his new Oldsmobile after one of our games . I drove it to the Big Springs Junction cafe where we all went after a game . I am sorry for your loss and the way he died . He deserved to live to 100 years of age . I am 78 now , GOD bless and watch over you . My number is 97.520.0925 I am bless to having the oportunity to know him during my years at Big Springs , Ne. High School may he R.I.P.
Randy Lukasiewicz
December 16, 2010
1950...I was short and a kindergardener, Paul was tall and a senior. I had not seen Paul until I invited him back for a 50th anniversary reunion of his class and also their trip to Nebr. Class E State basketball Finals in 1956. I was tall and Paul was taller. I will never forget that 'meeting' on the sidewalk steps, 50 years later. When Darryl Krzycki, a fellow class/teammate of Paul's passed on a few years ago, I acquired from his family, his Farwell Sports collection. Securing that collection and memorabablia revealed to me why my kindergarden year was so special. That is the year that the Farwell teams almost all went undefeated. The encounter and acquaintence with Darryl led me to invite Paul back to Farwell. They are now together as 1st stringers on the Heavenly Basketball team. Darryl was instrumental in a spiritual conversion for me and Paul's return to Farwell added to it in ways neither one was ever aware of.
My heart is saddened at Paul's departure but leaping for Joy as to where he is. By reading other guest comments, I can see where he was SO MUCH larger in character and stature than I imagined and his hugs must have been pretty precious, comforting and healing. As we reflect on all the wonderful traits of this gentle giant, may we all too be blessed and healed. Mary Jo and family, you are in my prayers at this time. You all are most welcome back to Farwell any time. Sorry I could not attend the service.
"Tall Paul" with his teammates as part of the Farwell town baseball team
Randy Lukasiewicz
December 16, 2010
Paul would have worn a uniform like this.
Randy Lukasiewicz
December 16, 2010
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Paul payed 1st base and pitched for the Farwell Fencebusters town baseball team in the 50's.
Randy Lukasiewicz
December 16, 2010
Lesta Wright
December 13, 2010
Paul was a great guy. He would always give you a hug. I enjoyed sitting with the both of you at Wednesday night dinners and service.
Savannah Bohner
December 11, 2010
I will greatly miss seeing Paul every Sunday morning and giving me that huge hug and always asking me how I am doing. He was a great person and friend. He will be greatly missed.
December 11, 2010
Paul is one of the most Spirit filled persons I have ever known. His memory will always be one that will encourage me to stay steady and work harder at leading a life of faith. He truly is a "Pure Heart"
Carl Pope
Galena, Missouri
Dana Ball
December 10, 2010
There will never be a hug quite like my friend Paul's...sadly missed, greatly loved. Dana Ball, Reeds Spring
December 10, 2010
Mary Jo, I always enjoyed Paul looking down at me with that broad smile and warm welcome Sunday mornings. I will genuinely miss him, but will always rememeber those warm Sunday morning greetings.
Gary Walker, MD
December 10, 2010
De Colores from Mary Ann Murray, Show Me the Way walk #41, Table of Naomi. Blessed Be.
December 7, 2010
Mary Jo - I was stunned to read about Paul's death in the Lincoln Journal. I met Paul in the 80's when we drove tour buses. I met you in Branson years ago. When Paul first met you he told me what a wonderful lady he had met. I am glad you two met and had some wonderful years together.
My sympathy and prayers to you and the family.
John Bowers
December 7, 2010
Mary Jo, What a treasure Paul was! He truly exemplified the fruits of the Spirit, always full of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness and true goodness. He was a giant of faith and a blessing to all. Though losing him in this life is an unbelievable sorrow, we know where he is and know he'll greet us all in heaven with those smiles and hugs. You and Brad and Brenda are in our prayers.
Martha, Earnie & Savannah Bohner
Bob Kuhn
December 6, 2010
Mary Jo, Brad and Brenda: I am so sorry to hear about Paul. I am so glad we had a chance to visit this summer. Paul has been a true friend and is one of the kindest people I have every known. He will be missed by everyone who knew Paul. We are thinking of you guys and wish you the best. You are in Gwynne and My thoughts and prayers. Bob Kuhn
Raymond Huggett
December 6, 2010
Mary Jo, Brad and Brenda I am deeply saddened by Paul's passing. Separated by time and distance I was unable to spend the time with him that I now wish I could have. He was a generous kind man that would share anything with his fellow man. We should have no regrets about his life other that it was far too brief. God Blessed us all by knowing him.
Opal Brillhart
December 6, 2010
SO very sorry, Mary Jo - Only time and God can REALLY help but just want you to know we care - Love and prayers - Opal and Ed Brillhart
I have so many fond memories of you when we were in school and cheerleaders....Ah, those cheese and pickle sandwiches when we'd get home from a ballgame!! ;-))
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