Betty Collins

Betty "Babe" Collins (nee Galik), age 94, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family, on Monday, March 3, 2025. 

Betty was born in Chicago, Illinois to Stefan and Betty Galik (nee Stancik). She was the baby of the family with 8 siblings, which is how she got her nickname, that she kept throughout her life. She was very proud of her Czechoslovakian heritage, as her parents came to America directly from there in 1912.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband Donald, whom she married in February, 1958. They enjoyed 50 years of marriage before Don's passing in 2008.

Betty's children and grandchildren were the highlights of her life. She and Don were blessed with 2 sets of twins, 8 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter. She loved spending time with her family, and was always up for a card game challenge- especially Sheepshead, Poker, or Euchre. In her youth she was a die-hard Cubs fan, attending many games, sitting in the bleachers and keeping her own written scorebook. Once moving to Wisconsin she transferred that passion to the Brewers and the Packers. 

Betty and Don spent most of their years in Wales, WI, where they raised their four children: Diane, Donny (Lisa), Janet (Tony)Tomaz, and Joyce (Shaun)McGuire, all of whom survive her. She is also survived by her beloved sister Rose Krc, and many nieces and nephews. She is further survived by her cherished grandchildren, Gabby Collins and Abby Collins, Kelsey (Tom) Aucutt, Austin Tomaz (Breonna Smith), Maddi Tomaz, Brianne McGuire, Shane McGuire (Nikki Christensen), Molly McGuire. She is further survived by her sweet great granddaughter Mabel Aucutt.

Betty was an absolute gem, and made those around her feel welcome with her warmth and positive attitude. Her glass was always half full and she lived the words of her favorite Slovak expression "Vitame vas" which means "We welcome you". The family knows that Jesus welcomed her home and told her “Welcome! My child, you’re home at last.”

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm on Monday, March 10, 2025 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Wales. Family and friends are invited to visit at the church from 1:30 pm until the time of service. Evert-Luko Funeral Home is serving the family.