Gary Eugene Collins 1942-2023 Gary Eugene Collins was born on September 19, 1942, and died on January 28, 2023, of natural causes. He was the third of six boys born to Harley Dent Collins and Rosie Eldora Murray. Gary grew up in Nampa working on his family's farm. He spent many days getting into mischief with his brothers and long days fishing at Indian Creek. From an early age he loved everything about cars. This later led to a successful racing career in the Valley. Gary graduated in 1960 from Kuna High school where he enjoyed playing football, boxing, and wrestling. It was here he started dating his high school sweetheart Ann McBride. They married on August 21, 1959, in Kuna. Their first daughter, Debbie, was born in 1960. On November 2, 1961, their marriage was solemnized and they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Within the next four years they welcomed three boys: David, Steve, and Brent. Sixteen years later, they welcomed twins Merilee and Kaylee. Gary was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served as a Bishop and on the Stake High Council. He was active throughout his life. He made a career in health insurance and co-owned Health Insurance Associates in Nampa. In 2000, Gary was elected as a representative to the Idaho State Legislature and served for 20 years, part of that time as Chairman of the Revenue and Tax Committee. Gary enjoyed camping, fishing, and traveling all over the world. One of Gary and Ann's favorite trips was when they visited Israel. Gary could talk to anyone, and he loved to get to know people. To Gary, family was everything and he was so loved by all. Gary is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ann; his six children: Debbie Simpson (Mark), David Collins (Anna), Steve Collins (Nancy), Brent Collins (Sabra), Merilee Collins (Nathaniel), Kaylee Verstoppen (Trampus); 19 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren; three brothers: Dennis (Irish), Dale (Bobbi), and Doyle (Sue). He was preceded in death by parents Harley and Eldora; brothers Ronald and Larry; and grandson Tyler. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, February 4, 2023 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 2212 E Amity Ave, Nampa, Idaho, with a viewing from 10:00 to 10:45 prior to the services. Condolences may be expressed at ZeyerFuneralChapel.com. 208-467-7300

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