Shelly M. Collins

Shelly M. Collins, age 56, of Toledo, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, February 3, 2013 at home. She was born on September 13, 1956 to Charles and Helen (Frobase) Youngman in Toledo. Shelly, a founding staff member of Bittersweet Farms, helped develop a holistic agricultural program for people with autism. She managed Community Garden in Toledo and finished her career as an administrator of an Ohio Developmental Center, helping people with disabilities live with dignity. Shelly will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She loved animals, cooking, gardening and the outdoors. Shelly enjoyed the time spent with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Barbara (Jack) Anderson. Shelly is survived by her son, Christopher Collins; siblings, David (Inge) Youngman, Dennis Youngman, Marilyn (Larry) Kopkau and Bill (Jenny) Youngman; best friend, Jeanie Martin; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

The family will receive guests on Saturday, February 16, 2013 from 1 – 3:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo (419-381-1900) with Memorial Services beginning at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider The Nature Conservancy or at www.nature.org.