NORMAN COLLINS Norman Arthur Collins, age 80, passed away Sunday, April 28, 2013. Mr. Collins was born in Momence, Illinois, March 3, 1933. He moved to The Villages, Florida, from Connestee Falls, North Carolina. Norm retired after a long and rewarding career as an elementary school teacher and principal, mostly spent in Geneva, Illinois. He had a rare gift and love for teaching children and won several "Educator of the Year" awards. His co-workers said he combined warmth, artistry, enthusiasm, structure, flexibility, and humor to create a model teaching environment. Many of his former students kept in touch with him through the years, and fondly recall the positive effect he had on their lives. Norm was an avid fisherman, who fished almost every opportunity he could. He also excelled at basketball, playing his entire life and even winning several gold medals at the Florida Senior Olympics. Church and service to his community were very important to him. Through his church, Norm led youth groups, helped renovate housing for those in need, and continued to teach. He was an active member of St. Mary 's Episcopal Church in Belleview, Florida. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Belle; daughter, Lisa Muir (John), son, Neal Collins (Daisy); grandchildren, Andrew Brennan, Garrett Muir, Breanne Muir and Hunter Collins; three great grandchildren, Ava Brennan, Ashton Brennan, and Keith Whelan (all from Illinois); his brother and sister in law, Bob and Sandy Collins of The Villages. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary 's Episcopal Church in Belleview, Florida or the Villages Hospice House. St. Mary 's Episcopal Church 5750 115th Street (Babb Road) Belleview, FL 34421 Villagers For Hospice 1114 Barcelona Drive The Villages, FL 3215 http://www.villagersforhospice.org Arrangements are by Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, The Villages, Florida.
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