H. Richard Collins OBITUARY

H. Richard Collins OBITUARY

H. Richard “Dick” Collins, age 90, of Wilmette. Beloved husband of Virginia “Ginny” nee Lynch for 63 years. Loving father of Rick (Mary Margaret) Collins, Mary (Brent) White, Brian (Lorri) Collins, and Elizabeth (Rik) Duryea. Adored grandfather of Riley Collins, Michael (Elizabeth), Kevin (fiancée Hallie), and Allison White, Stephanie, Henry, and Annmarie Collins, and Meredith and Nora Duryea. Preceded in death by his parents Howard and Louise Collins and his sister Barbara Brosnan (the late Dr. James Brosnan). He was the proud uncle to his niece Dr. Pamela Blacher (Dr. Brett Blacher) and his deceased nephews Nick, Bart, and Phillip Brosnan.

Dick was born and raised in the Christ the King parish in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood where he started a lifelong commitment to his family and his faith. He was a proud graduate of Leo Catholic High School, John Carroll University, University of Notre Dame Law School, and the Michigan State University Business School. Continuing in the academic realm, Dick began his career as a professor at Loyola University and then DePaul University, teaching many young, aspiring accountants. He then migrated to public accounting, joining Ernst & Ernst where he quickly ascended to partner. One of his most impactful roles Dick held at the firm was leading college recruiting across the Midwest. Over the years, he came across countless people who thanked him for giving them their first professional opportunity. After retiring from Ernst & Young, Dick moved into the executive search industry, placing executives into leadership roles across several industries. His last and favorite role was in executive outplacement, where he felt his greatest career accomplishments came from assisting and supporting people as they managed through career and life transitions.

Dick used his talents to support and guide many charitable and religious organizations. He started the Parish Councils at Christ the King and Sts. Faith, Hope and Charity parishes, served on the board of Catholic Charities for several years and was involved in several other organizations. He also served as a board member of Regina Dominican High School, Chicago State University, and Westmoreland Country Club among others.

While Dick had many great successes in his professional life, he was most proud of his roles as husband, father, and grandfather. His marriage to Ginny was one of extraordinary joy, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to one another for 63 blessed years. As a father, Dick was adored by his four children, who he taught to be independent and curious thinkers, be compassionate and caring for others, and to laugh and enjoy one’s family and friends. He also taught them the importance of patience and perseverance through his unwavering loyalty to the Cubs. Saving the best for last, his greatest role was as a grandfather to his nine grandchildren. He was an active part of their lives, attending countless games, performances, and events, always beaming with pride. Each of his grandchildren was thrilled to hear his cheers from the sidelines and bleachers. He had special relationships with each one, knowing how to connect with them with a smile, a joke, or simply an appreciation for a great donut.

To his final days, Dick never lost two of his many gifts. He had a great sense of humor that so many will remember forever. Quick with a comment, his many bridge partners will attest that he could mix it up with the best of them at the card table. He also had a great ability to connect with people. To Dick, no one was ever a stranger; rather they were someone whom he had not yet met. From parents in the stands to hospital staff to people in front of him in line, he always wanted to hear their stories and share a little bit of his.

Dick will be missed immensely by his family and remembered fondly by his many friends.

Visitation Thursday, July 2nd, 10 AM, Sts. Faith, Hope, and Chairty Church, 191 Linden Street, Winnetka, until the Funeral Mass at 11AM. Interment private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities, Leo Catholic High School or Regina Dominican High School. For further information please visit donnellanfuneral.com or (847)675-1990.