Jim Edward Collins

Our dear Jim passed away in Nanaimo Palliative Care at the age of 72 years after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Sadly missed by his loving wife Agnes, son Lorin (Jana) and daughter Kathleen from his first marriage to Sandra (predeceased), stepsons Rob Hilsen(Theresa), Wil Hilsen (Karen) and dear grandchildren Austin and Harrison Collins and Charlotte and William Hilsen as well as brother Mickey, sisters Leilani and Laura and nieces.

Jim was born in Vancouver and lived and worked in the Vancouver area as a salesman in the recreational vehicle industry for 41 years until his retirement in 2011. Known fondly to friends and customers as "rvjim", he was an expert in the industry.  

Jim faced much adversity in his younger life but he was able to rise above it all with his determination  and positive spirit. Jim loved people and was an enthusiastic storyteller with many interesting tales to tell. He loved to sing, he enjoyed listening to all kinds of music with anything Motown being his preference, and he had some very impressive moves on the dance floor. He was a wonderful  husband, a great Dad, proud Grandpa, loving brother and good friend to many.

For the past 6 years, he and Agnes lived in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island where he greatly enjoyed his lifestyle of gardening, golf, camaraderie with new friends and glorious family times. A snowbird, Jim loved to spend his winters in La Quinta, California. His kind and positive spirit and beautiful smile will be forever remembered.  A Celebration of Life to be held later this summer.

Special thanks to Nanaimo Regional Hospital staff, our Nurse Practitioner Helen (Keumjoo) No at Oceanside Primary Care and our Palliative Care Nurses for their care and compassion.

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