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Melvin Collins Obituary

Melvin J. Collins

Dr. Melvin J. Collins age 95 of Downers Grove. Loving father of Jodi Sullivan and Jan ( Mary Ellen Gilbert ) Collins.

A WW II Navy Veteran ( rescue swimmer ), an exceptional athlete, coach and College Administrator.

A celebration of Life Service will be Thursday October 31, 2019 from 1-3 PM at Toon Funeral Home 4920 Main Street Downers Grove, IL 60515. For additional information www.toonfuneralhome.com OR 630-968-0408

Published by Suburban Life Publications on Oct. 31, 2019.
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Memories and Condolences
for Melvin Collins

Sponsored by Toon Funeral Home - Downers Grove CLOSED.

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My Deepest Sympathy Jodi and Jan for your loss. We had many happy times together. Last time I saw him was maybe 7-8 years ago. Surprised him at the Chiropractor school while visiting my family. He was delighted and gave me the Royal tour. We met in 1971 at a Parent's Without Partners dance in Rosemont, IL. He came up to me asked me to dance and said"Your going to be my girl." We dated three years, married 1974. We divorced 1979 but always remained friends. Over the years he sent me birthday cards and Christmas cards, then it suddenly stopped and wondered if he was alright. Just by chance I thought of him and typed in his name, saw his obituary in Legacy where my mother is also on that site. Mel is now in a better place. He lived a rich rewarding long life. God Bless Mel. Rest in Peace. Terry

Terry Wangsness

May 26, 2020

Rest in Peace Mel.

Terry Wangsness

May 26, 2020

Sad to hear of Mel's passing ,a great friend and a true American hero.. Happy I got to know him and know his story...May he Rest in Peace...AL Billinger Aston, Pa.

Albert Billinger

Friend

January 21, 2020

Truly one of kind! Though my heart is heavy to learn of my dear friend, Mel, passing. I just know he is indeed resting/rejoicing with the Lord, while making the angels laugh. He was that kind of guy...full of one liners, laughs and love for all. Oh God, many years ago back in the late 1980s, I was blessed to work with Mel at National College of Chiropractic. He taught me so much as a young black professional...humility, kindness, dedication, and sense of humor most of all. Even as the years rolled on, we stayed in touch. He would always remember my family during Christmas. My wife simply loves his wit and kindness. I will always be grateful for our friendship. Rest in peace, dear Friend. Thank you for leaving the world a better place. We love
you, 'ol pal.

To the Collins Family: Lift up your hearts, though heavy....HE Knows and HE Cares...Our Condolences.

Peace & Love,
E. Cleveland & Family

Friend

November 11, 2019

Thank you for your service to our country REST IN PEACE

A VIETNAM VETERAN

November 10, 2019

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

From the Staff of Toon Funeral Home

November 10, 2019

As a former National grad, Mels energy and enthusiasm was always a delight after a long day of classes. Thank you Mel.

Jerry McNally

Acquaintance

October 31, 2019

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Lynn Nelson

Coworker

October 29, 2019

Mel was superb. Friendliest person at NCC any day any time. Always smiling and happy to greet visitors. An awesome man.

Todd Sinai

Friend

October 29, 2019

James Winterstein

October 29, 2019

Dear members of Mel Collins' family,

Dr. Mel Collins worked with me from 1986 to June 2013 when I became president emeritus at National University of Health Sciences. What a wonderful man he was and a real treasure for me personally and for National University. My words cannot do justice for his presence, accomplishments and his joy for life. He was of such stature in our institution that the Board of Trustees granted me the privilege of awarding the Doctor of Laws (LLD) honorary degree on Mel on April 19, 2008 with the following citation:

WHEREAS:Mr. Melvin J. Collins has faithfully served National University of Health Sciences in the Admissions Office since July of 1986, and

WHEREAS:Mr. Melvin J. Collins instituted a program through which tens of thousands of high school science students have visited National University of Health Sciences, and

WHEREAS:Mr. Melvin J. Collins has been employed in the admissions departments of Drake University, Ohio Northern University, Hiram Scott College, Coe College, and was the admissions coordinator for the American Chiropractic College in the late sixties, and

WHEREAS:Mr. Melvin J. Collins is a World War II Naval hero who was awarded the Bronze Star for heroic and meritorious achievement, and

WHEREAS:Mr. Melvin J. Collins was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal of Honor for "gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his own life above and beyond the call of duty," and

WHEREAS:Mr. Melvin J Collins was directly involved in saving the lives of 22 pilots who had been downed at sea, and

WHEREAS:It is the prerogative of the Board of Trustees of National University of Health Sciences to recognize individuals of outstanding qualification by having honorary degrees conferred upon them,


NOW BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED:

That by the authority granted to National University of Health Sciences by the State of Illinois and delegated to the Office of the President by the Board of Trustees, I, James F. Winterstein, as President do hereby confer upon you, Mr. Melvin J. Collins, the honorary degree, Doctor of Laws (L.L.D.) with all of the rights, privileges, and responsibilities pertaining thereto.

What a special, unique and wonderful man whom we loved and appreciated even while we extend our deepest condolences to you who are members of his family.

Love, Jim and Cynthia Winterstein

President Emeritus
National University of Health Sciences

James Winterstein

Coworker

October 29, 2019

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Oct

31

Celebration of Life

1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Toon Funeral Home

4920 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL

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Toon Funeral Home - Downers Grove CLOSED

4920 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515

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