Irene Collins

Irene Collins, 91, of Champaign, died on the evening of Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at Carle Foundation Hospital.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, Dec 16 at 10 am at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 1303 Lincolnshire Dr, Champaign. Burial will immediately follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Champaign. Owens Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Irene was born on June 23, 1933 in Champaign, the daughter of George Pankau and Josephine Bailey. She married Dwain Collins on Nov 11, 1951 in Champaign. He preceded her in death on October 25, 1985. 

She is survived by her daughter and her son-in-law, Marsha and Pete Elmer. 

Irene was a graduate of Champaign High and later attended Parkland College. She began her career at The Courier newspaper and later, Eisner food stores.  Most recently she worked at Capital Agricultural Property Services for 17 years, earning her retirement in 2002. After retirement, Irene enjoyed her time socializing with friends and neighbors.   She was also a volunteer for the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and was honored with several awards for her time she devoted to the Senior Center and their programs.  Irene was a parishioner at Holy Cross Catholic Church and later at St. Matthew Catholic Church, both in Champaign.

She loved her pets was a big supporter of the Champaign County Humane Society. 

Memorials may be made to St. Matthew Catholic Church or the Champaign County Humane Society. 




 

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