NORWICH – Donald H. Collier, 92, of Norwich, passed away on Saturday, March 23, 2013 at the Norwich Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.
Born March 30, 1920, in Norwich, Don was the son of Eugene and Julia (Farrell) Collier. When he was born, it was said, “They broke the mold with him. He was an original for sure.” He graduated from Norwich High School and owned and operated Collier Electric for 35 years. During the 1940s, Don was the co-founder and manager of the “Y” Giants football team and in the late 1940s and 50s, he ran the down-markers for the NHS football games. In 1958, he was honored for his “Outstanding Norwich Spirit.” Also during the 1950s, Don coached the YMCA Boys’ Basketball Team and voluntarily operated the clock for all the high school basketball games and wrestling matches. From 1960 to 1970, Don was a coach in the Norwich Little League and also managed the Norwich Blue Jays Town Baseball Team. He was also the founder and coach of the St. Paul’s School basketball team and always ended the season with a team trip to New York City to watch NIT games. No child ever went without when Mr. Collier was your coach.
In 1975, Don was elected to the Norwich School Board. Through his efforts, a new football field and track complex was developed at no cost to the taxpayers. He served on the board for 11 years, resigning in 1986 as board president. In May of 1980, Don was honored by the Norwich PTA with their Life Membership award in recognition of his efforts on behalf of the youth of Norwich. He was also a life member of the Ontario Hose Company of the Norwich Fire Department. On June 18, 1997, Don was again honored when the Mayor proclaimed it, “Don Collier Day” in the City of Norwich.
In 1951, Don married June Stewart. June died on July 21, 1993. He is survived by his children and their spouses, Bonnie and Dennis Murphy of Skaneateles, Donna and Mike Fradenburg of Norwich, his sons, Phillip and Kathleen Collier, Kurt and Cathy Collier and Thomas and Mary Collier, all of Norwich. Don was grandfather to 17 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Krissie Collier in 2011 and three brothers, Leo, Glen and Ken Collier as well as three sisters, Peg Harrington, Rose Scott and Patricia Carnrike.
Funeral services for Don will be held at 11:00 a.m. April 15, 2013 at the Wilson Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery. Friends are invited to call at the funeral home from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Contributions in memory of Don may be made to Hospice of Chenango County or to the SPCA.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the Wilson Funeral Home website at www.wilsonfh.com.