Kaptur statement on the passing of Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins
February 6, 2015
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur issued the following statement in response to the tragic passing of Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins:
"D. Michael Collins --sworn into office one year ago as the 62nd Mayor of Toledo, Ohio -- took to heart the words "duty" and "honor." An Irish-American son from the South End of Toledo, his entire adult life and works were dedicated to serving our community and country.
Upon high school graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps attaining the rank of Corporal. Until his passing, every day he lived the motto of the Corps, Semper Fidelis, "Always Faithful." When he returned home from military service, he continued serving his community as a police officer for nearly three decades. He was elected President of the Toledo Police Patrolmen's Association. He first ran for City Council in 2007 and quickly earned a reputation as a problem solver with deep knowledge of the City's finances and budget. He ran for Mayor in 2013 in a heavily contested race, won with broad public support and was sworn into his first term.
Mayor Collins lived the City's motto "Laborare est Orare--" to work and to pray. He assiduously applied himself to every task he undertook. Throughout his life, he was an indefatigable learner attaining many degrees that served him well in his leadership roles. He also taught at his alma mater, the University of Toledo.
During his year as Mayor, he shepherded the City through three major crises: the tragic loss of two firefighters in an arson-related fire, the shutoff of City water for three days due to contamination by algal blooms in Lake Erie due to cyanotoxins, and, most recently, a level 3 snow emergency. Through it all, Mayor Collins' steady leadership, humble manner, and broad smile gave confidence to the public.
On behalf of our entire community, please let me extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife Sandy, who was always at his side, and to his daughters and grandchildren. May our community turn grief to good works as Mayor Collins would wish. Our citizenry has been blessed to know him and work with him. May God bless him and bring him peaceful rest."
Contact: Matt Sonneborn, 202-225-4146 or Matt.Sonneborn@mail.house.gov
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