Claris J. Collins

Claris J. Collins, 71, of Gillett, passed away on Sunday, May 1, 2022, at home with family by her side. Claris was born on Jan. 30, 1951, to the late Lawrence and Lucille (Dunk) Courchaine in Oconto. She began dating Roland “Ron” Collins in 1978 and they moved to their current home in Gillett on Christmas Eve 1981. On October 16, 1985, they married and spent 36 wonderful married years together. Claris received her nursing degree and worked as a nurses aide in Shawano for a few years. For the majority of her working life, Claris was a factory worker. She retired in 1988 due to a disability. Claris was a very loving woman. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and was always available to help someone in need. She was a gifted cook who was always concerned if her family had enough helpings. Claris loved the outdoors whether she fishing, camping or gardening. She also enjoyed playing cards. Claris is survived by her husband, Ron; three daughters, Christine (Rodney) Nelson, Tanya (Shannon) Smith and April (Pat) Montie; three stepsons, Robbie (Peggy) Collins, Ronnie Collins, and Quinn Collins; grandchildren, Brianna Ryczek, Brooke Bitters, Amber Collins, Marissa Collins, Kaitlin Collins, Victoria Collins, Wyatt (Kierstin Genz) Nelson, Dylan Nelson, Kylie Montie, Maxwell Montie, Matthew Kiesling, Heather Duaime; 11 great-grandchildren; and three siblings, Leatrice (Bob) Milhans, Cletus (Carol) Courchaine, and Bernard Courchaine. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; in-laws; siblings, Babe Courchaine, Frank Courchaine, Ken Courchaine, Lennice Swearingen, Linda Busch, Anita Dearing, Rosemary Funk, Johnny Lee Courchaine, and Linda Lou Courchaine. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com. The family would like to thank the staffs of Unity Hospice and Bellin Cancer Center for the care and compassion offered to Claris and her family during their time of need. Further thanks are extended to Connie Konitzer, Peggy Wilson, Jill Collins, and Jonea Collins for the support offered.