Hazel A "Close" Collins

Hazel A. Collins, passed away peacefully on the 6th of September 2025, in her hometown of Elkhart at the age of 76. She was born in Elkhart on the 11th of March, 1949, to the late Bernie Close and Doris (Maxwell) Taylor, and she was a pillar of strength and warmth within the community she always called home.
Her professional life was a testament to her work ethic, as she long served the Elkhart community through her employment at Foam Craft Manufacturing. There, she was known for the kindness and friendliness she extended to everyone.
Her involvement with the Moose Club in Goshen 836 was one of the many ways in which Hazel made lasting contributions to her community. She brought the same caring and friendly disposition to her work with the club as she did to all other aspects of her life.
Hazel will be remembered for her remarkable ability to infuse love into everything she did, especially when it came to her family. She is survived by her loving sons, Bobby Burns of Elkhart, Bernie (Sara) Burns of Oklahoma, and Louie King of Elkhart; her brothers, Clint Burks of Elkhart and Eldon (Sarah) Burks of Grand Rapids, MI; her beloved step-sisters, Cindy Taylor, Brenda Taylor-Ellsworth, Sherri Taylor; her adoring five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love and the joyous memories that each family member will carry in their hearts forever. She was preceded in death by one grandchild.
Hazel's life was further enriched by her love for coloring. This hobby allowed her to express her creative side and provided countless hours of tranquility and pleasure, often shared with her precious grandchildren.
Through her caring nature, loving presence, and friendly demeanour, Hazel touched numerous lives, and the words "loving, kind, and friendly" only just scratch the surface of the profoundly positive effect she had on her family and community. Her spirit will live on in the stories shared by those who knew her, highlighting the warmth and light she brought to every room she entered.
Palmer Funeral Home ~ Bubb Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Hazel will be buried at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at Rice Cemetery, 400 James Street, Elkhart, IN 46516.

As we bid farewell to Hazel A. Collins, we celebrate her life and the indelible imprint she left on the world. Her legacy is one of joy, love, and friendship, it is one that will never be forgotten.