Luke Glennon Collins

Luke Glennon Collins, beloved son of Chuck and Kathy Collins of Appleton, died unexpectedly in Reno, Nevada on April 17, 2010. Luke was 35. He was born in Appleton on January 2, 1975 and was a graduate of Xavier High School. He also received a degree in Business Administration from St. Norbert College in DePere.

With a great love for family, Luke brought joy to their lives. While young and residing in Appleton, he brought energy and enthusiasm to many team sports. From tennis to soccer to basketball, Luke participated in each sport with a competitive spirit. In contrast, with a quiet gentleness and good humor, he was always the good listener.

Luke resided in Reno since 2000 where he worked as a cashier at Long John Silver's Restaurant. In Reno, Luke continued his interest in physical fitness as an avid walker. He looked forward to the frequent visits of his brother, Matt Collins, who traversed the Sierra-Nevada Mountains to share time together. Snow-skiing, golf, tennis, trips to the book stores and good meals were highlights of their days.

Luke leaves behind his parents: Chuck and Kathy Collins of Appleton; a sister: Peggy (Rob) Larson of Winneconne; two brothers: Mike (Cama) Collins of Berwyn, Illinois and Matt Collins and his special friend Denise Stats of San Francisco; a nephew, Sammy; and maternal grandparents, Roy and Marge Menzel of Stevens Point. There are also several aunts and uncles: Bill (Esther) Collins, Fr. Bill Menzel, Jim (Sharon) Menzel, Mike Menzel, Tom (Kate) Menzel, Fritz (Carol) Menzel, Godmother Janet Jurgella, Steve (Wendy) Menzel, and Dan Menzel and his special friend Jennie Lane, as well as his Godfather Ron Jurgella. He is also survived by many loving cousins, other relatives, and countless loyal friends. Luke was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Willard and Frances Collins, and by an aunt, Mary Sue Menzel.

Luke was surrounded by the support of many. The family extends its gratitude to:

Dr. Jose Thekkakara of Reno: you cared for Luke with patience, love and compassion;

Father Bill Menzel of Wisconsin Rapids: your wise family counsel and prayers are eternal;

Manager Brian, Chef Mary and staff at Long John Silver's in Reno: you gave Luke purpose; work was so important to him;

Summer and Mike at Colony Inn Apartments in Reno: your kindness touched both the lives of Luke and his family;

Chris Craggs, the medical/support staff of Outagamie County Health and Human Services, and Villa Phoenix in Appleton: your support enabled Luke to realize his dream to graduate from college.

A funeral liturgy for Luke will be held at 4:00 PM on Friday afternoon, April 30, 2010 at ST. THERESE CATHOLIC CHURCH, corner of Wisconsin Avenue and Morrison Street in Appleton, with Fr. Bill Hoffman and Fr. Bill Menzel officiating. Friends may call at the church on Friday afternoon from 2:00 PM until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to NAMI Fox Valley (National Alliance on Mental Illness).

“And He will raise you up on eagle's wings…” Psalm 91

Wichmann Funeral Home
537 N. Superior Street
Appleton, WI 54911
920-739-1231