Gary Collins

Gary Collins obituary, Whittemore, MI

Gary Collins

Gary Collins Obituary

Published by Legacy on Mar. 27, 2026.
Gary Collins, 74, of Whittemore, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026, in Tawas City, Michigan. Born on April 28, 1951, in Midland, Michigan, he was the beloved son of Noretta and Irum (Al) Collins.

A proud graduate of Whittemore-Prescott School's Class of 1969, Gary dedicated his career to Whittemore-Prescott Schools as a bus driver and custodian. Through his dedication and hard work, he left an enduring impression on those he encountered within the community he served so faithfully.

Gary's life was deeply intertwined with his love for cars and racing. In his younger years, he embraced the thrill of competition as a racer at Whittemore Speedway. This passion never waned-whether attending car shows or sharing stories about vehicles with friends and strangers alike, Gary's enthusiasm was infectious. His ability to connect through these shared passions created meaningful memories for all who knew him.

He is survived by his children, Gary (Karen) Collins III of Whittemore, James Collins (Julie), and Grace Collins (Jared); his grandchildren, Gary IV, Allen, Kaylee, Preston, and Ellie; and great-grandchildren Nova and Sadie; his sisters Betty, Dorothy, and Carolyn, and his devoted partner, Gwen Grubbs. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Allen Collins, and his son, Gary Lee Collins Jr.

Gary's legacy lives on in the countless memories he created through his stories and kindness. May all who knew him find solace in the enduring warmth of his vibrant spirit and the joy he brought to their lives.

The family would like to acknowledge the loving staff at Iosco County Medical Care Facility for their dedication and compassion during Gary's stay.

Memories and condolences can be shared at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.

Legacy.com reports daily on death announcements in local communities nationwide. Visit our funeral home directory for more local information, or see our FAQ page for help with finding obituaries and sending sympathy.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Gary's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Gary Collins's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Gary Collins's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?