Earl R. Collier, 82, of Downers Grove died Wednesday, March 8, in Burgess Square Healthcare Center in Westmont. Born in Painesville, Ohio, Mr. Collier was a custodian at Downers Grove South High School for about 15 years. Before working at the high school, he completed maintenance work in a grade school. “He loved kids, and they loved him back,” said his wife, Mary. Earlier in his life, Mr. Collier worked in grocery stores. He also was in the Army during World War II, serving mainly in India and China. Besides his wife, Mr. Collier is survived by three daughters, Mary Ellen Peter, Gayle and Barbara Corbine; a brother, Harold; a sister, Annie Clark; a daughter-in-law; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Visitation will be from 3 to 9 p.m. Friday in Toon Funeral Home, 4920 Main St., Downers Grove. Services will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday in the funeral home.
