SHOREVIEW, MN (February 28, 2011) – A memorial service was conducted Friday for former Evangelical Covenant Church minister Jon Collins, 60, who died last Tuesday.
Collins was born July 18, 1950, in Oak Park, Illinois. He graduated from Taylor University with a Bachelor of Arts in history and philosophy and earned his Master of Divinity degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He completed orientation studies at North Park Theological Seminary.
He married Sandra Reher on February 16, 1980. She survives. Collins served as associate pastor at Salem Covenant Church in New Brighton, Minnesota.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by four sons: Ben, Josh, David, and Chris Collins.
When I was in high school, Jon came to serve as Youth pastor at my home church. He was intense, inquisitive and intellectually engaged. He liked good books, football and lively conversation. I am glad I knew him.