Edward J. "Ted" Collins, Jr.

Edward Joseph “Ted” Collins, Jr., long time resident of Toledo Ohio, passed away after a long illness and a life fully lived on February 11, 2024. Born in Detroit Michigan on June 17, 1941 to Edward and Frances (Gilbert) Collins. He was beloved by many as an intelligent, humorous, methodical man of integrity who cared deeply for others.

The list of Ted Collins’s accomplishments and contributions to the world during his 82 years of living is lengthy.

Upon graduating from Woodward High School, he enlisted in the US Army and served in Korea, post war, on the DMZ and then in Seoul with a focus in finance, responsible for troop payroll. He also developed a finance department in Vietnam. While in Seoul, Ted began his higher education by attending the University of Maryland Global Campus, delving into Korean culture and history, forging friendships with Korean students.

Upon returning to the States, and Toledo, Ted worked at his favorite job, with the Pennsylvania Rail Road in the finance department. His position allowed him extensive travel opportunities.

Ted met Judith Steffel, while she was attending St. Vincent School of Nursing, at a social gathering, and they married in 1966, enjoying 48 years together.

Wanting to further his education, Ted made the decision to leave his secure job and attend the University of Toledo and pursue a degree in Accounting. He was a member of Beta Alpha Psi fraternity and was recognized in Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities.

Upon graduation, he was employed in public accounting before accepting a position with Toledo Edison. During his career he was an accountant and internal auditor and trained as security for Davis Besse until retirement.

Ted then embarked on several second careers. Included were an Income Tax business, security for The Toledo Art Museum, accountant at St. Paul’s community center, finance for Habitat for Humanity, Village Players set builder and even lunch room assistant at Ladyfield School.

One of his proudest endeavors was being a Trustee of Lucas County TASC, Inc. from 1998 to 2004.

As a supporter of youth, Ted enjoyed being a Boy Scout Leader and traveling to Philmont Scout Ranch.

Ted Collins memberships included, VFW Post 606, Moose Lodge 1579 and Most Blessed Sacrament Church.

Ted’s passion for sailing landed him in 1982 as a member at Bay View Yacht Club until present. Ted and Judy enjoyed sailing on Lake Erie and their many friendships and activities with fellow members. Ted served as an officer and committee chairman with his sharp pencil focused on accounting and finance.

Ted and Judy were avid travelers to Europe, Jamaica, Mexico, Hawaii, Florida, the East Coast and South Carolina for treasured grandparent time.

Ted was an exceptional story teller with a phenomenally sharp memory to the end. He impacted many lives in many ways with a true interest in people, especially children.

His hobbies included making friends, fishing on the Auglaize River, wine making, music, playing guitar and singing, Ohio State football, racing dirt track cars, riding his motorcycles, jewelry making, knife crafting, classic cars and shows, reading and studying history. Above all, he loved taking his grandchildren to the beach. Did I mention Mexican food and margaritas?

Preceded in death by his parents, wife, Judy and brother, Mark.

The lives most impacted by him belong to his family and close friends.

Son, Bruce Collins (Jacob, Barbara). Daughter, Amy (Pete) Droll (Nathan Baird (Amanda), Amber (Cory) Hovest, Holli (Rob) Hoenbrink, Aaron (Jayme) Halker, Ariel (Tyler) Kihm and Dez Halker). Son Patrick. As well as nine great-grandchildren. Sister, Chris (Tom) and sister, Sharon. Several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Imad Hariri, Dr. Humaira Lateef and Dr. M.Farooq Afridi, along with Toledo NWO Hospice for their kindness and extraordinary care.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, February 18, 2024, from 2-5 p.m. at the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, OH 43623. Visitation will continue Monday, February 19, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Most Blessed Sacrament, 2240 Castlewood Drive, Toledo, OH 43613, with a Funeral Mass beginning at 11 a.m. The burial will be private. It was Ted's wish that you not send flowers. If you would like, in his memory, please donate to Most Blessed Sacrament Church or Hospice of NWO.