Susan (Sue) Collins, 61, passed away peacefully at home on an October morning, surrounded by her husband, daughters and beloved dogs, after a three-year battle with breast cancer. Sue was born pure of heart and remained that way her entire life.
Sue was a beloved, accomplished physical therapist in Oconto Falls for nearly 30 years. Sue was a runner who proudly completed multiple marathons, including the Boston Marathon in 2010. She was a gifted writer with a deep love for books, coffee and wine. Sue was a talented musician who played the flute and performed with the band Thurmont Ridge.
Above all, Sue shone as a mom, spouse, daughter and friend. Sue and her husband, Mike Collins, shared an incredible marriage rooted in profound love and respect — and lots of birding and coffee. To her daughters, Sue was a constant source of love, support, encouragement and happiness. She was their favorite travel companion, horseback riding partner and running buddy. Sue’s family is so proud of her, and words cannot capture how deeply she is loved and missed.
Sue loved travel and planned the most meaningful road trips, starting from when the girls were toddlers. Literally days before her death, Sue was able to complete a bucket list road trip across the U.S., hitting many of her dream destinations.
Sue was born and raised in Naperville, Illinois, but was raised a proud Badger and Green Bay Packer fan. She moved to Gillett with her husband (Mike) in the early 1990s when he accepted a teaching job at Gillett Elementary School.
Sue is survived by her husband of 40 years; two daughters, Kate (Sean) and Brooke; her mother, Marlys; and her cherished brothers, sisters/brother-in-law.
Sue is preceded in death by her father, Dr. Kenneth Hurst, and her sister-in-law, Sandy Collins.
A visitation will be held on Dec. 4 from 3-7 p.m. at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls. A funeral service will be held on June 1, 2026, at 1 p.m. in Waupaca at Trinity Lutheran Church. Sue will be buried in a private ceremony at Rural Cemetery, just miles away from her childhood family cabin at Pine Lake.
We would like to extend our profound gratitude to Amy Lemens and Wayne Strei who got Brooke home from the airport in time to be with Sue. And a big thanks to Megan and Nurse Adria of Unity Hospice who were so very helpful in Sue’s peaceful passing.
Sue gave generously, loved wholeheartedly and lived fully. In lieu of flowers or gifts, we ask that you consider donating to any of Sue’s favorite charities: ELCA World Hunger, the Humane Society of Waupaca County or Rails to Trails. Sue’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, our memories together and the love she leaves behind.
Go Pack Go.
