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Larry L. Collins (Corky), Ph.D. May 18, 1935-March 17, 2015,

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and Professor Emeritus, College of St. Catherine.

Larry was born in Arkoe, MO in 1935 and moved to Gays Mills, WI at the age of two. Larry spent his formative years in southern WI, graduating from Richland Center High School in 1953. Larry spent four years in the Air Force and while stationed in Osceola, WI met his future wife of 57 years, Eleanore Swanson, of Taylors Falls.

Larry was enrolled at the University of Minnesota from 1959-1968 and was awarded BA, BS, MA, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. He became a college professor and dean, teaching Spanish at the University of Minnesota for six years, the University of Colorado for 11 years, and the College of St. Catherine’s in St. Paul for 24 years. For over 30 years, Larry arranged study abroad programs to Mexico and Spain not merely to study the language, but to help students understand cultures as well. Larry also spent time in Bolivia to help organize a nursing school to bring medical help to the “poorest of the poor.” Larry spent his life as an educator and co-wrote the book “The Search for Global Justice” which he used in many of his classes. He was awarded the “Outstanding Teacher” award from the alumni of St. Kate’s.

Larry served in many volunteer roles in his community serving on the Taylors Falls school board, First Lutheran church board, as well as working with Thrivent Humanity Homes. Larry’s true passion in retired life was serving on the board of St. Croix Regional Medical Center in St. Croix Falls, WI. He served a total of 17 years on the board including a term as Chairman. In 2009 Larry received the St. Croix Health Advocate of the Year award for his work on the board.

Larry is survived by his wife Eleanore; children Shawn (Suzy), Shannon (Craig) Levang; grandchildren Katlyn Levang, Austin Collins, Rachel Levang, Olivia Collins, Noah Collins; siblings, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Memorial services were  Saturday, March 21, 2015 at First Lutheran Church in Taylors Falls with interment with military honors,  at Kahbakong Cemetery in Taylors Falls.  Arrangement by Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom.  Condolences may be left online at www.grandstrandfh.com

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