COLLINS, Kenneth Don
July 3, 1933 – March 30, 2024
Peacefully at the age of 90 with his cherished granddaughter Emily at his side.
Ken is survived by his devoted wife and love of his life, Ilka (Hrynchyshyn); his sons Kevin (Jo-Anne) and Curtis (Marie); grandchildren Emily Curtis (Kent), David Collins (Lyndsay Astley), Jeff Collins (Shannon), Brian (Meredith) and Mark; great-grandchildren Carson and Hailey Curtis, and Bryce and Mason Collins; sister Valerie McKinley (Glenn); and niece Jane Dickson. Also survived by close, loving and longtime best friends, Lanny Kamin, his wife Carol Sparling and their extended family; and by Les and Janie Orsborne, Pam Collins and Sue Berry. Sadly missed by beloved feline companions Jelly Bean and Snickers who are still looking for him. Predeceased by his brother Dr. Dudley Collins (Laurene) and parents Garnett and Florence Collins.
Ken was born in Harrowsmith but spent most of his life in the Kingston-Napanee area. He could be as tough as nails but to those who really knew him, he was a kind and gentle softie.
He was a successful entrepreneur. He started Commercial Door Systems in 1956 and in 1982 decided to pursue the manufacturing sector of Overhead Garage Doors and all of their components as KenMar Doors in Napanee. He was proud of his business success but his greatest joy came from helping others, including substantial donations to the Kingston General Hospital, Frontenac Community Arena, and most of all, the building of the hospital facilities at Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre in Napanee with Ilka.
He lived a long life but, to those who loved him, it was not long enough. With dignity and heartfelt quality care, Ken was able to spend his last few days at Fox Run by the River in Gananoque. Family and friends would like to give special thanks to Heather Howard, Patti Lynn and all the team that make Fox Run an amazing home away from home. In keeping with Ken’s wishes, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ken’s memory to Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre in Napanee would be appreciated.
Online condolences at www.tompkinsfuneralhome.ca
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