Dear Friends and Family,
It is with heavy hearts that we share the sad news of the passing of our beloved Robert who left us on September 27, 2023, at approximately 9:30 pm. Robert's triumphant battle with acute myeloid leukemia was nothing short of heroic, and his enduring spirit touched all our lives. He remained cancer-free after his transplant in 2022- Thanks to Karin’s awesome cells.
Robert's journey with the horrible cancer began on December 19, 2020, when he was diagnosed with cancer. That Christmas Day in 2020 marked the beginning of a fierce struggle, as he found himself in a coma, intubated, and facing a host of other challenges. In typical Rob fashion, he fought with unmatched determination, and through intensive treatments and physical therapy, he defied the odds and returned home on March 28, 2021.
By May of 2021, he was back to work, his smile brighter than ever. Robert was elated to be back with his family and to resume the life he cherished. Gradually, things began to return to normal, and he even managed to take some family trips, creating beautiful memories along the way.
However, on October 21, 2022, our hearts sank when he received the devastating news that his cancer had returned. Despite this setback, there was hope. Our sister, Karin, was a perfect match as a stem cell donor, and her selfless gift breathed new life into Robert's fight. Once again, he showed us his incredible resilience.
Most recently, a new struggle began. On August 1, 2023, Robert experienced sudden serious lung complications that led to his hospitalization. He fought valiantly, but the battle became increasingly difficult. Despite countless medical procedures, tests, treatments and the love of his family and friends, we had to say our final goodbyes yesterday. His lungs suffered too much damage. The medical teams were never able to identify what caused these lung problems.
Through all these challenges, Robert's courage and determination inspired us. He showed us the true meaning of strength, resilience, and the importance of cherishing every moment. We will forever remember his warm heart, dedication to family and friends, his hard work, his optimism, and his love for life. And- according to Rob….everything was always “fine” even in the worst of moments.
Details for the memorial service are currently being organized and information will soon be posted on CaringBridge and Facebook. We anticipate the services to be late next week and in Lake Zurich, Illinois.
Thank you all for your support and love during this difficult time. Robert's legacy will live on in our hearts, and we will continue to remember him with smiles and tears.
Friday, October 6, 2023
Public Visitation- 3:00-9:00 PM
Davenport Funeral Home
941 South Old Rand Road
Lake Zurich, Illinois
You may park in the church across the street but not in the bank next to the funeral home.
College fund accounts to support his daughters have been created for those who would like to donate in lieu of sending flowers etc. Donations are deductible in Illinois. Checks should be written payable to Bright Directions and the memo should read "Collins College Donations." Checks should be mailed to:
PO Box 87
539 W. Liberty St.
Wauconda, Illinois 60084
A GoFundMe to support the college expenses will also be posted for those who wish to donate online. Please search “Mary and Kaitlyn Collins College Fund”.
https://gofund.me/859edfdfHere is the link to donate blood, and while it will not go specifically to him, the country is in a critical blood shortage. Katie and I are signed up. After seeing how much blood and platelets Rob has received I will be going back to my old habit of donating regularly. I hope you will consider donating regularly as well.
https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-driveLove,
The Collins, Montgomery, and Karecki Families
