Nicholas E. Collins

Nicholas E. “Phat Nick” Collins, 41, of Galesburg, died Sunday morning, October 24, 2021 in Galesburg. Nick was born April 3, 1980, in Galesburg, the son of Samuel E. Johnson, III and Rose A. Collins.  Nick is survived by his mother, Rose Hawkins of Galesburg; three brothers, Ron (Bettina) Collins of Dallas, GA, Parry (Deanna) Campbell of Lenexa, KS, and Stephen (Tammy) Collins of Pembroke, KY; and two nephews, Dominic Collins and Dillon Collins.  Nick was preceded in death by his stepfather, James L. Wilson, Jr and one brother, Michael Collins.  Nick earned his GED and later earned a welding certificate from Carl Sandburg College.  He worked for several years at Derby and last worked as a painter for Midstate Manufacturing.  Nick was an avid gamer and a diehard fan of the Chicago Bulls as well as the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings.  He was an extremely giving and caring person often to a fault.  Nick lived life to the fullest and by his own rules. Visitation will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, October 30, 2021, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  A celebration of life will follow from 3 to 5 p.m. at “The Store” 497 E. Berrien St., Galesburg, IL 61401.  Cremation will be accorded following visitation.  Private burial will be in Babbitt Cemetery, rural St. Augustine, IL.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family in care of Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, 1849 N. Seminary St., Galesburg, IL 61401.