James E. Collins, age 81 of Eastlake, passed away April 24th, 2026 at Chardon Health Care. He was born January 16th, 1945 in Cleveland to the late David and Dorothy Collins.
James retired from Lincoln Electric after 30 years of service.
James graduated from Eastlake North High School (Class of 1964). He was inducted into the Eastlake North Hall of Fame for football, wrestling and baseball. He was a member of the Cleveland Association of the Deaf for over 50 years. He enjoyed playing softball and bowling with his brothers for CAD. He was a huge Cleveland and OSU sports fan.
James was the loving husband for 58 years to the late Ida D. Collins (nee Wright); beloved father of Jamie (Lynnette) Collins and Gary (Cathy) Collins; dearest grandfather of Tyler (Delaney Davis-Hagy) Collins, Austin and Samantha Collins, Alexandra (Keith) King, Dylan (Aaliyah Berry) Collins and Jakob (Sarah Carter) Collins; great grandfather of Emma, Lee, Benjamin, Asher, Lilah, Kyrie, Isaac, Tatum, Ruby, and Junie; brother of Terry (Ruthie) Collins, Dennis (Lucette) Collins, and the late Diane (Erich) Kinkopf, and Kathy Collins; uncle to many nieces and nephews; loving pets Rocky and Moe.
The Collins family will receive family and friends from 4:00 – 7:00 PM Friday, May 1st, 2026 at Jeff Monreal Funeral Home, 1000 Mentor Ave., Painesville. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, May 2nd at the funeral home. Burial will follow at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon Twp.
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5 Replies to “James E. Collins”
Wrestle you again in heaven, my friend
Our hearts go out to Jamie’s family. His sweet smile, sparkly eyes and kind heart made this world a better place. We’re grateful for the time we got to spend with him at North High School. May his memory always be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
Sincerely,
Teri and Hank Schenk
I lived in Boston for over 46 years. I came back to Cleveland area which is my hometown here in Eastlake and I first person I was encountered with was Jim. I seen him up the hospital several times. That’s in those days was the West end. Recognize me right off the top. I didn’t figure he would. He’s a wonderful person in high school and absolutely wonderful just all the way around. Always got along with them. I’m sorry to hear that he passed. Always had a smile. Don Goshe class of 64
So sorry to lose another classmate! Prayers to his family!
To an awesome father, who inspired many of his family and friends. James you will be missed by many. Never forget that you were an honorable man, father grandpa and cousin to many. Love you cousin
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