Collins, John

John Collins, Lad.25 John M. Collins was one of the world’s heroes in disguise. As a NY Firefighter‚ as a NY Police Officer‚ as a son‚ a brother‚ and as a friend‚ John looked to help and protect those around him. But he tried hard to make sure no one knew about it‚ not even his family. When he was a child in NY‚ his father would take him to a local firehouse and a friend would put him up on a ladder truck – the impression stuck‚ along with memories of New York firefighters marching on St. Patrick’s Day. Because there were no openings in the Fire Department when John first applied‚ he joined the New York Police Force and served four years‚ during which time‚ as told by his fellow officers‚ he helped poor families by buying groceries for them and sneakers for their children. When he was appointed to the FDNY‚ John‚ the oldest of five‚ was living out his dream. He was assigned to Ladder Co. 25 in Manhattan. When asked by his family about the dangers of his job‚ or the fires he battled‚ he always tried to change the subject His family joked that he was the only fireman who never went to a fire! Although quiet about his work‚ he reveled in the camaraderie of his fellow firefighters. John was devoted to his family and took the initiative to make sure they all remained tight knit as they grew older. As his brother and sisters remarked‚ ‘When Johnny arrives‚ the party begins.’ They delighted in the time spent with John‚ his scheduling for attendance at Rock Concerts and vacations at the shore. An avid ‘WHO’ fan‚ he blasted songs and loved to mimic Peter Townsend’s guitar playing style. An intense Giants fan‚ he celebrated every win and minimized any loss! John had many close friends in NY and enjoyed great times and many happy moments with them. His motto was ‘live life to the fullest‚ but don’t forget to help the next guy.’ On Sept. 11th‚ he gave the ultimate gift – his life for others. No words were ever spoken No time to say goodbye You were gone before we knew it And only God knows why. All our love forever‚ Mom and Dad Anne and Bill Marty Eileen and Dan Trish and Tim Kiera