(Toledo News Now) - State and federal leaders are sharing their memories and condolences to the Collins' family and the entire Toledo community after the passing of Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins.
"It is great that we knew our mayor and that we respected his work and that we understand the tradition of service that his life represents," said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur. "He loved being mayor, despite all the difficulties. And he carried us forward, he ferried us through."
She now suggests people turn their grief into something positive in honor of Mayor Collins by doing things like plant a tree, develop your skills, or better the community.
"My dad always said, 'a person serving is someone that looks out for the person they represent' and he did that. He gave himself. The mayor gave his heart to the City of Toledo and northwest Ohio. He's one of those true public servants out there," said U.S. Rep. Bob Latta. "The mayor had a very tough year but he handled every one of those situations. It's going to be a real loss for Toledo but also northwest Ohio. Our hearts go out to Mike's wife and family and grandchildren. He's going to be very sorely missed here in northwest Ohio. "
"He was a guy who wanted to get things done, Seventy years old, on top of it. He was all about the future. I'm going to miss him. We had a great working relationship," said Sen. Rob Portman. "He was the kind of guy who cared deeply about the people he served and spent his whole life doing it whether it was in the Marines, as a police officer, as a councilman and mayor. He was a good guy and easy to work with. He was willing to work with absolutely anybody. No pretense, very straightforward, no formality. He was just a guy who wanted to get stuff done."
Sen. Sherrod Brown reflected back on the work he did with the water crisis back in August.
“I think he will be a rallying cry for (Sen. Rob Portman) and me and others that he set us on the right course…I think good things will happen as a result of his leadership,” said Sen. Brown. “He was always there. He always committed his heart and soul to this city… He was so, all-in in every way as a leader. It's hard to believe he was only mayor for not much more than a year.” “I am saddened to hear about the passing of Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins. Mayor Collins was a champion for the City of Toledo and his leadership will be missed. I had the pleasure of seeing Mayor Collins in December when he testified before the Senate Agriculture Committee and again last month in Toledo to announce a new partnership to clean up Lake Erie. Each time I had the opportunity to work with him, his passion for his constituents and the City was so evident. My thoughts and prayers are extended to his wife Sandy and his entire family during this hard time," said Sen. Debbie Stabenow.
Ohio Gov. John Kasich ordered the flags at all state buildings to half staff in honor of Mayor Collins. He tweeted, “Very saddened by the passing of Toledo Mayor Michael Collins. Proud to call him my friend and my prayers go out to his family." State Senator Edna Brown released the following statement:
“I extend my deepest and heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Mayor D. Michael Collins. I consider myself blessed to be among those who had the opportunity to know him.
“He devoted his life to public service and his death is a tremendous loss to our city. He will be missed by the citizens of Toledo and anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy will be remembered forever.”
“We are saddened to hear about the passing of Mayor Collins today. A life-long Toledoan, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, a dedicated police officer, union leader, and finally as Mayor, Mayor Collins spent his life serving and protecting his community," said Ohio Democratic Party Chairman David Pepper. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this very difficult time, along with the entire Toledo community.”
More statements of the passing of Mayor Collins:
Rep. Bob Latta
Sen. Randy Gardner
Sen. Rob Portman
State Representatives Michael Ashford, Teresa Fedor and Michael P. Sheehy
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