Pamela Collins, 83, of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, at Garden Court Chateau, surrounded by the care and compassion that she had so generously given to others throughout her life.

Pamela was born on June 21, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, to Ray Collins and Margaret Brooks. Raised in the Catholic faith, she attended school in Detroit before life's journey eventually led her to Minnesota, where she built a life centered on meaningful friendships and caring for others.

To know Pam was to know kindness. She possessed a remarkable work ethic, an infectious charm, and a heart that seemed to have room for everyone. Whether you were family, a lifelong friend, or someone she had just met, Pam had a way of making you feel welcomed, valued, and loved. It is no surprise that nearly everyone who knew her affectionately called her "Sweetie Pie"—a nickname that perfectly reflected the warmth and gentleness of her spirit.

Pam devoted many years to serving others in the long-term care industry, where her compassion and natural gift for caregiving touched countless lives. Later, she became the beloved bartender at the American Legion in Grand Rapids. Behind the bar, she was more than someone serving drinks—she was a listening ear, a friendly smile, and a bright spot in the day of everyone who walked through the door. It was there that she met Bruce Kolu, who first came in as a customer, quickly became a regular, and ultimately found  love and devotion in Pam.

Pam was blessed with six children through her years;  Dewey, Temper, Sheldon (Beanie), Rita, Denise, and Todd.   Though her heart also carried the profound sorrow of losing three of them far too soon, she remained steadfast in her compassion and kindness, always placing the needs of others before her own.

Pam found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She loved gathering around the table for a spirited game of Yahtzee, losing herself in the pages of a good book, dancing whenever the opportunity arose, and spending peaceful hours fishing.  Her legacy is found in the countless lives she touched through her kindness, the laughter she shared, the comfort she offered, and the memories she leaves behind.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Pam leaves behind a lasting reminder that the greatest gift we can give one another is simple kindness. Her gentle heart and loving spirit will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.  May she rest in eternal peace.

Pam is preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Margaret; three children, Dewey, Temper, and Sheldon; two sisters, Virginia and Marcella; and grandson, Andrew Houg.  She is survived by three of her children, Rita, Denise, and Todd; nephew, Larry Malone; and her loving sweetie and partner, Bruce Kolu.

A memorial service will be conducted for Pam on Friday, July 24, 2026 at Rowe Funeral Home beginning with a time of visitation at 10am and formal services starting at 11am.