Michael Allen Collins was born May 4, 1949 in Benson, Minnesota, the son of Merlyn Dewey and Donna Mae (Svea) Collins. He was baptized and confirmed into the Christian faith. He grew up in Benson and attended Benson Public Schools. Michael was united in marriage to Donna Mae Berens and were able to share in 38 years of marriage. They were blessed with three children. Michael and his son farmed and raised cattle south of Benson. He enjoyed having coffee with friends and spending time with his grandchildren. He spent many hours in the shop on the farm. Michael was called from this life on Thursday, November 17, 2011 at the Swift County Benson Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. He attained the age of 62 years, 6 months and 13 days. Michael is survived by his children: Terry (Jim) Flower of Benson, Tammy (James) Thompson of Chanhassen, Todd (Jennifer) Collins of Benson; grandchildren: Jared (Makayla) Flower, Sarah Flower, Brittany Flower, Justin Thompson, Emily Thompson, Thomas Thompson, Nicholas Collins, Chloe Collins, Natalie Collins, and Meg Collins; his mother Donna Harder of Benson; siblings: Steve (Diane) Collins of Watertown, Denny (Mary) Collins of Willmar, Jeff (Margaret) Collins of Moorhead, Jody (Jackie) Collins of Benson, Bonnie Wrobleski of Benson, LuAnn (Bruce) Moen of Benson, and Tim (Teresa) Collins of St. Boni; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Preceding him in death were his father, Merlyn Collins; brother, Gary Collins; nephew, Jay Collins; and his grandparents.
