Nicholas Collins

Nick Collins, 22, passed away on December 31st, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, compassion and a deep search for the true meaning of life.

Nicholas Benton Collins was born on May 14th, 2003, to David and Tatyana Collins of rural Garwin, IA. He attended school at GMG and graduated in 2021. From a young age, Nick was never interested in material things. He was a thinker, a reader and a seeker–someone who questioned what it meant to live well.

After graduating from Cornell College, he dreamed of dedicating his life to animals, hoping to one day build a dog shelter to protect and care for homeless dogs. His love for animals was evident in the way he adored the family dogs, Max and Macy – making them treats, taking them to the park and blowing bubbles just to make them happy.

Nick was selfless. He had a strong sense of kindness, respect and love for all who were unfortunate, always feeling drawn to help the poor, the weak and those who were overlooked.

He lived simply, finding joy not in possessions but in experiences–being outdoors, camping, hiking trails, cutting down trees, connecting quietly with the world around him. An avid reader since childhood, Nick read thousands of books and was always writing stories, reflections and autobiographical pieces that revealed his ongoing search for purpose.

Nick loved his family. Every day, he created precious memories for the family to cherish. He deeply loved his sister, Laura, and treasured the time they spent together playing video games, taking care of family dogs, making Yu-Gi-Oh cards from scratch and playing them for endless hours. He supported his younger brother, Jacob, in pursuing his dreams.

Nick had a gift for offering wisdom at just the right moment, often sharing thoughtful quotes to guide and comfort those around him. He believed deeply in living fully in the present moment, appreciating the gift of today.

Though his life was far too short, Nick Collins leaves behind an enduring example of what it means to live with intention, compassion, and a sincere search for meaning. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his thoughtful soul and the love he gave so freely to people, animals and the world around him.

He will be forever remembered by his family, David and Tatyana, Andrew, Jacob and Laura; Tatyana’s brother Alex and Natasha and their two children; David’s sister, Linda and Kyle Reynold and their 11 children, and David’s father, Phil Collins and Tatyana’s mother, Luba Lyan.

Nick's funeral was held on February 1st, 2026 at Garwin Valley Community Church in Garwin and his burial was held at Chapel Hill Cemetery in Gladbrook. The family thanks everyone for their support and prayers.