Surrounded by her loving family, Diana Collins (nee Fitzsimmons) passed peacefully at Brightshores Health System in Markdale on Sunday, February 15, at age 71. Cherished wife of 40 years to Michael Collins of Markdale. Dear sister of Paula Spratt of Annan, Robert Fitzsimmons (Jackie) of Markdale, and sister-in-law Jennifer Gammon (Brian) of Peterborough. Loving aunt of Rebekah Spratt, Sarah Partridge (Chris) and their children Ben and Ewan, Alison Fitzsimmons, Jonathon Fitzsimmons (Katya), Alexandra Gammon, and Michelle Gammon (Dakota). Diana was predeceased by her infant sister, Donna, and by her parents Hilliard and Yolanda 'Yola' Fitzsimmons (nee Ursini). She will also be fondly remembered by her neighbours and friends in the community.
 

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart." - Helen Keller

 

Diana lived her life in a way that each person she met created a bond  and a trail of beautiful memories to be enjoyed by both of them which they kept close to their heart. Her passion for her family was so evident in the engagement she had with her nieces and nephews: Rebekah, Sarah, Alison, Jon , Alex and Michelle. They all felt they were loved unconditionally and that Aunti Deed was always there for them whether it was to listen or offer advice . They knew she would never judge and always love them. They shared their passion for baseball, travelling and cooking with her, making conversations effortless and endless between them. Her special interest in Ben and Ewan and the support she gave them whether it was connecting with them through their sports or school  was so heartfelt and they both could feel this.

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Bob and Paula knew that Deed would always be there for them. Supporting them with her organizational skills and providing sound advice. They were not just siblings, they were best friends.  Their parents had instilled in them the importance of being there for each other. It was something all three of them did right to the end. Mike was her rock, the person who kept her grounded and they created so many great memories with each other. A trip to France to follow his father’s route during the war. Sailing together with family and friends in the Virgin Islands. Spending time at the cottage and supporting the Blue Jays  brought them both pleasure. Creating a new home in Markdale was one of the most rewarding events they shared together. A place for people to gather, relax and create special memories. She loved to have people around her and entertaining in their home was a way to accomplish that. Planning and cooking for the event brought her the greatest pleasure. Seeing her friends and family interact and making connections sparked joy  and brought a smile to her face. There will be a deep hole in our lives without her. Who will be our compass? Our loss is immeasurable but so is the love she left behind.

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“How lucky are we to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. “ AA Milne 

 

Cremation has taken place and arrangements have been entrusted to the Garafraxa Hill Funeral Home, Chatsworth, Ont. A Celebration of Life service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday April 25, from 12:00 – 3:00pm  If desired, donations to Brightshores Health System-Markdale, would be appreciated by the family. Condolences may be expressed online at garafraxahillfuneral.com.