Gerald Richard Collis

Gerald Richard Collis, of Shelby Township, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, at the age of 83 at Corewell Health Beaumont Troy Hospital.

A devoted man of faith, family, and community, Gerald lived a life marked by service, strength, and quiet humility. He was the kind of man who gave of himself fully-to his country, to his work, to his church, and most of all to the people he loved.

Gerald was born on May 13, 1942, in Hazel Park, Michigan, to Morris and Frances Collis (née Schomer). He was raised in Warren and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1960.

Gerald was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and served during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He carried that same sense of duty throughout his life.

He later attended the police academy, where his dedication and discipline earned him the distinction of graduating second in a class of 200.

Gerald served the City of Warren as a police officer for 25 years, building a respected career in law enforcement before advancing to the rank of Corporal in the Detective Bureau. He retired in 1989, leaving behind a legacy of courage, professionalism, and commitment. During his years in law enforcement, he became especially known for his skill with a pistol and his expertise in advanced driving techniques.

Even in retirement, Gerald's desire to serve never faded. He continued giving back to his community through 15 years of work at Lincoln High School, where he served in many roles, including bus driver, mechanic, and custodian. No task was beneath him when it meant helping others.

His faith was the cornerstone of who he was. Gerald had a deep and abiding love for God. He was a Deacon at Van Dyke Baptist Church and a Deacon and treasurer at First Baptist Church of Hazel Park. When he and Caren moved to Shelby Township they joined Bible Baptist Church. His church was not only his place of worship, but also a place where his servant's heart was evident to all who knew him.

On February 8, 1964, Gerald married the love of his life, Caren Collis (née Bjerk), in Warren, Michigan. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and devotion, sharing many happy years and creating a family that was his greatest pride.

Gerald is survived by his beloved wife, Caren Collis; his children, Jim (Tina) Collis, Linda (the late Keith) Heman, and Bill (Denys) Collis; six grandchildren-Jimmy(Jena), Brad(Ashley), Tommy, Shelby, Sadie, and Drake; one great-granddaughter-Sawyer; and his siblings, David (Margaret) Collis, Dennis (Lynne) Collis, Janet Havro, and Keith (Roxanne) Collis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Morris and Frances Collis; and his siblings, John (Anita) Collis and Kathy (Don) McLaughlin.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 2:00 - 8:00 pm at Gramer Funeral Home, Diener Chapel, 48271 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Twp., MI 48317 with a funeral service at 7:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bible Baptist Church in Gerald's honor.

Gerald will be remembered as a loving husband, proud father and grandfather, faithful servant, and devoted friend. His life was a testament to loyalty, honor, and steadfast love. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, his church, and the many lives he touched through the years.