Retired Covenant pastor Tom W. Collins passed away on November 10, 2024, in Madison, Wisconsin. He was 79.
Tom was born on August 2, 1945, to John and Mary (Shaw) Collins in Long Beach, California.
On August 26, 1967, Tom married Lynda Prenslow in Yakima, Washington.
He graduated from North Park Seminary in Chicago, Illinois, and was ordained by the Evangelical Covenant Church in 1971. Later, Tom earned his doctorate from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California.
Tom’s passion was being a pastor and sharing the joy of God’s love to all. He served Covenant churches in Walnut Creek, California; Owatonna, Minnesota; Columbus, Ohio; Houston, Texas (where he established five churches); Kirkland, Washington; Lawrenceville, Georgia (Faith); and Lakewood, Colorado (Grace). He also served as associate dean at North Park Theological Seminary.
After retiring in 2005, Tom and Lynda moved to Madison to be near their grandchildren. In Tom’s free time, he enjoyed playing tennis and was an avid woodworker. Several of the pieces he crafted are now cherished family keepsakes.
Tom was preceded in death by his wife, Lynda, and grandchild Hope Gross. He is survived by his sons, Jason (Charis) and Gregory (Laurie); grandchildren, Carter Gross, Mackenzie (Jacob) Munson, Jack Boyle, Ellie, and Owain; great-grandchild, Charlotte Anne Munson; and many other relatives and friends. A celebration of life was held on November 23, 2024. Online condolences can be made here.
Peace be to his memory.
