Michael Lane Collins of Mitchell met Jesus face-to-face on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 59.
Michael was born in Carrollton, Kentucky, but spent most of his life in Mitchell, Indiana. He was lovingly raised by Velma Jo Collins, Judy Miller, Mary Helen Wilson, Carla and Brent Geary of Florida, and Patti and Ron Burgess of Kentucky.
He graduated from Mitchell High School in 1983 and was the first in his family to attend a four-year college. He graduated from DePauw University in 1987 with a degree in physics and was a Phi Delta Theta fraternity member. Michael was a dedicated employee of Lehigh Cement Company for over 35 years, where he was honored to chair the Leadership Council and mentor many on his team. He served his community as a certified minister, elder, youth pastor, coach, and friend. He showed his love for the community in the cofounding of The Lion’s Den Coffeehouse, which aimed to minister to local youth and show them the love of Christ. Michael’s most significant roles were husband, father, and grandfather.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Rachelle (Chastain) Collins of Mitchell; his son, Jacob (Loren) Collins of Franklin; daughter, Michaela Collins of Zionsville; and grandson, Theodore Collins. Other surviving family members include sister Carla (Brent) Geary; nephews Joshua (Jennifer) Geary and Brent Michael (Renee) Geary; aunt Patti (Ron) Burgess; cousins Shannon Burgess and Kristi (Harold) Price; mother-in-law Loraine Chastain; brothers-in-law, Hollace (Kelly) Chastain and Greg (Jill) Chastain; nieces, Raelynn (Malachi) Wills and Sarah Chastain; nephews, Chase and Zachary Chastain; and beloved great nieces and nephews.
Michael is preceded in death by his birth mother, Judy Miller; adopted mother, Velma Jo; grandmother, Mary Helen Wilson; Elbert Lowe; father-in-law, Hollace Chastain; and his beloved Sweetpea, granddaughter, Emmalyn Jane Collins.
Michael loved sunsets, hiking, warm beaches, time with family, and a good steak. He loved to make people laugh and lit up rooms with his sense of humor. But, more than anything, he loved Jesus. He lived his life knowing that he was a part of God’s story, and all who love him find comfort in the knowledge that he is rejoicing with the Lord.
The funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 1, at the Mitchell First Baptist Church with Pastor Brett Wilson officiating. Burial will follow at Mitchell Cemetery.
Friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Friday at Chastain Funeral Home & Cremation Center and from 10:00 a.m. Saturday until the time of the service at the church.
The family asks to donate in Michael’s memory to the Emmalyn’s Way fund for accessible play. Donations can be made at www.jccf.org/give-one-time.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com
