Spencer Collins

Spencer Thomas Collins, 23 passed away peacefully with all of his family, friends, and extended family by his side. Heaven gained a kind, caring, strong, brave, determined, and fighting angel on January 5th, 2024. Spencer was born to Mandi Lorash and David Collins on January 30, 2000 in Missoula, Montana. From his birth, Spencer fought the odds given to him from a seizure disorder that were a constant battle, but this never slowed him down. He was a fighter from birth until the good Lord decided to take him home.

Spencer loved spending time with his family and friends. He especially was fond of his nephew Logan and niece Elsie. They brought so much joy to him. MaKale was a wonderful sister to Spencer. She was not only one of his primary caregivers, but she also made sure he had what he needed and took him everywhere he needed to go. Spencer loved her with all his heart. Mandi and David were given a special child from birth. They were the best parents and caregivers even with the obstacles that were always present. The care and love shown to Spencer was very evident in everything they did for him. He was their special boy and they gave their hearts to him. He knew who he could count on always. Spencer and his cousin Kandyce shared a very special bond. Even though she was far away, she always held a special place in his heart. He enjoyed life to the fullest in all things he did.

He loved to play his Switch, video games, watch movies(his favorite as of recent being Grumpy Old Men & Grumpier Old Men), the love of horseback riding, and gambling He loved to go and play a $5. He always bluffed anyone he was with for a $5, yet he had a wallet full of his own. He would take a cup with him for change as he was a fond collector of coins. Anyone gambling taking in a winning, kept the cash and Spencer's cup gained the change. He also had a cat, Tabby, that he loved dearly. Spencer never met an obstacle that he didn't try to conquer. His strong will and determination were always present no matter how bad it would seem to be. He always had attitude, not always great, but that's our Spencer.

The love of Star Wars for Spencer was a great one. He had many different figurines toys, costumes, blankets, and even a special coffee cup that changed colors. Spencer was so special to all that knew him and he touched the hearts of so many. Spencer worked at the Clinton Market and had great joy in the work he did there. He stocked the pop and rolled all the change from the sales. Spencer loved coins, no matter how much or little they were worth, if he knew you were getting or had change, he would hold his hand out and say"It's mine!".

Spencer we all know you are in a better place. We all love and miss you buddy. Until we meet again our sweet boy.

Spencer is survived by his loving parents Mandi Lorash (Don Pettijohn), David Collins, sister MaKale (Alex, Logan, & Elsie)Trickey, all of Missoula, grandparents Midge and Sherry Lorash of Cut Bank, Debra Casaray of Missoula, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, & friends. He was preceded in death by his great-grand parents that he always spoke of Pete & Dot Hathaway and grandpa David Casaray.

Services will be February 10, 2024 in Missoula at Garden City Funeral Home & Crematory at 10:00AM with a reception to follow featuring Spencer's favorite, donuts, coffee, and juice.

"Death is a natural part of life. Rejoice for those around you who transform into the Force. Mourn them do not. Miss them do not. Attachment leads to jealously. The shadow of greed, that is."

- Yoda