John M. COLLINS M.D.

1937 - 2022

John Marvin Collins was born on December 16, 1937, in Gardiner, MT, to Jack and Margaret Collins. He passed away in Spokane, WA on November 3, 2022.

John was a Fire Control Technician in the US Navy from 1955-1961. He was married to Ellen "Midge" Klingensmith from 1961-1980. He received bachelor's degrees from both the University of Montana and Montana State University. In 1969 he graduated from Baylor College of Medicine. He then practiced medicine in Spokane until the year 2000. He was one of the last physicians in the area to perform house calls. He also served as the team physician for the Spokane Jets hockey team and the Spokane Indians baseball team.

John had a lifelong passion for gardening, even selling his produce at the local farmer's markets just for the joy of interacting with people. He enjoyed ballroom dancing, reading, and racquetball. He was often seen driving his restored green 1935 Dodge pickup truck, which was his daily transportation in the 1970s and 80s. He was also an active member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks local Fraternal Order of Eagles Aeries.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Jack Collins; and his nephew Mark Sheak. He is survived by his sister Billy Jean Sheak of St. Paul, MN; his oldest son Jan (Denise) Collins of Spokane, WA; youngest son Glen (Yoli) Collins of San Diego, CA; his loving companion, Candi Connick, of Spokane, WA; and multiple nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 11, 2022, at 4:00 PM at the Benevolent Order of Eagles Aerie #2, 6410 N. Lidgerwood, Spokane, WA 99208. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the Benevolent Order of Eagles Aerie #2 at the same address.