William "Bill" J. Collins

William J. Collins, known to his friends and family as Bill, 87, of North Syracuse, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 18, 2023. He was born on July 7, 1936, in Syracuse to the late James and Genevieve (Skrupa) Collins and attended St. Vincent de Paul and Eastwood High School. Bill spent time with his aunt and uncle where he traveled with the Chicago White Sox as a batboy.

He worked with the Carpenter's Union and owned and operated WJC Contracting in North Syracuse for an impressive span of 50 years including working on the North Medical Center.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Bill had a range of hobbies and interests. He loved to hunt, snowmobile, ski and he loved spending time on his boat with his beloved Suzie by his side.  People that knew him often remarked that he “always had the need for speed.”

Bill was predeceased by his son, David Collins, in 2005 and his brother, Tom Collins. He shared 63 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Suzanne F. (Merola). Together they raised four children: James (Deb) Collins of North Syracuse, Jayne (Jay) Planeta of Cicero, and William (Traci) Collins Jr. of Cicero. Bill is also survived by two sisters, Barbara (Jack) Lake of CA and Maryjane (Arnold) Merola of Liverpool; a brother Michael (Donna) Collins of Brewerton; eight grandchildren: Krista, Jay, Joseph, Jimmy, Jenny, Patrick, Jonathan, and Anthony; and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Contributions in Bill's memory may be made to N.A.V.A.C., P.O. Box 3, North Syracuse, NY 13212. The family also wishes to extend their appreciation to the 7th floor staff at Van Duyn Home & Health Center for their compassionate, loving care of Bill in his last days.