Dennis L. ("Cuz” and “Ted”) Collins of Chesterton passed away on Friday, March 26, 2010 in Loyola University Hospital in Maywood, Ill. He was 51.

Born on April 1, 1958 in Valparaiso, he was the son of Leroy and Evanna (Marquardt) Collins of Chesterton, who survive.

Also surviving are his wife Jane (Swanson) Collins; daughter Kaylie Collins; stepdaughter Christy Rogers (Jimmy Adams); and sister Denise (Corwin) Hendricks of Indianapolis.

Dennis grew up in Chesterton, graduated from Chesterton High School in 1976, and lived in Porter County most of his adult life. In 1979, he joined Midwest Operators Union Local 150 as an operating engineer and remained a working member for the past 30 years. He was a member of the Chesterton United Methodist Church, the local Moose Lodge and the CHS Band Boosters. He had a passision for cooking and generously shared hs creations with others. He also enjoyed spending time with friends, playing pool, bowling, Texas Hold’em, and backgammon.

A visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 2 at the Edmonds and Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton. The funeral service will follow on Saturday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Chris Newman-Jacobs officiating. Graveside services and interment will be at the Chesterton Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Dennis’ name to the Chesterton High School Marching Band. www.ee-fh.com