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Peter Collins Obituary
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He was born in Wilmington, son of the late Edward T. and Jane (Pennock) Collins, Jr. and raised in Kennett Square, PA, where he attended Kennett Square High School and ultimately graduated from Episcopal Academy. Pete then attended the University of North Carolina before being drafted by the US Army during Vietnam. Upon his honorable discharge, he continued his career as a lab technician for ICI Americas for more than 40 years. Additionally, Pete worked at the Garden Valley Nursery in Wilmington, DE for over 10 years, a job most suited for his passions.
Pete's family is a baseball legacy. Naturally, Pete excelled in all sports, especially baseball, ultimately playing competitively in Wilmington for a semi-pro team. He was an avid fan of the Phillies and Eagles. His true passion, however, was his devotion to his garden and photographing the birds who came to visit. Pete was an instant friend to everyone, even up until his last day. He will be deeply missed by all.
He is survived by his wife, Helen "Sis" (Harrity) Collins; his son, Peter Matthew Collins; step-daughters, Heather Hudson (Jerry), Holli Hudson (Brett), and Melanie Irwin; his step-grandchildren, Brian (Casey), Mallory, Joey, Emilia, and Cooper; his brother, Edward T. Collins III (Lynn); several cousins, nieces, nephews, and members of his extended family; and his beloved pets, Weezie and Stanley.
The family would like to express gratitude to Dr. Oana Tomescu of Penn Medicine for her compassionate care throughout his years and to the staff of Christiana Hospital for their kindness and respectful care during his final days.
Services for Pete will be held at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808. A visitation will take place on Thursday, February 8, 2024 from 5:00 – 7:00pm; and a memorial service will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024 at 11:00am. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Pete's memory can be made to Autism Speaks, P.O. Box 37148, Boone, IA 50037-0148, or to a charity of your choice.
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Karl Schoettle
April 17, 2024
At EA, Pete was varsity soccer captain in addition to excelling in baseball. He was a great guy and a good leader. His profile and movement on the soccer field looked a lot like Lionel Messi. Sorry to have lost touch after school.
Ken Webb
February 15, 2024
Grew up with Pete. So many stories, so many great memories. Greenwood Swim Club, hanging around Kennett, having fun , going up to his Grand Mothers house and looking at his Grand Mother’s house and looking at the autographed baseballs signed by the greatest ball players, and all kinds of adventures. Great guy.
Cory O'Neal
February 5, 2024
My family and I grew up and lived next to the Collin's at their time in Westgate Farms. Matt and I were only a few months apart in age and were very good friends all throughout school and I still remain in contact with both him and Susan, today.
My siblings - Erin, Regan, Cassie and our mom, Maria - were so saddened to hear of the passing of Pete, whom our parents and ourselves have so many fond memories of over the years. Our Dad (who passed in 2021) and Pete always shared in so many great stories and laughs and always looked out for one another when I was growing up. We knew we could go to Pete & Susan's for anything, and they knew (along with Matt) that it was the same over at our house.
Holding all of the family in our hearts and in prayer during this time.
-Cory O'Neal
Eugenia Sparks
February 4, 2024
Very gentle soul.
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Christina Plotts
February 3, 2024
As a little girl, I adored him. I spent many weekends with my aunt and uncle several years before they had Matt. We always went on nature walks or to the beach. There were always laughs at family gatherings. What a smile he had! Hadn't seen him in years but he will always be in my childhood memories and my heart. Rest in Peace, Uncle Pete
Christina Plotts
February 3, 2024
Christina Plotts
February 3, 2024
Christina Plotts
February 3, 2024
As a little girl, I adored him. I spent many weekends with my aunt and uncle several years before they had Matt. We always went on nature walks or to the beach. There were always laughs at family gatherings. What a smile he had! Hadn't seen him in years but he will always be in my childhood memories and my heart. Rest in Peace, Uncle Pete
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3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808
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