Charles Kraus Collins' Obituary
Charles “Charlie” Kraus Collins (age 56) of Centreville, Virginia died peacefully while surrounded by his family on November 23rd, 2021.
Charlie was one of a kind. He lived life with his heart and a unique kindness that was felt by everyone he met. Two of his greatest gifts were his infectious personality and sense of humor. On a daily basis he freely shared his joy and enthusiasm with others by coining his own sayings, trademark phrases and enunciations. The ultimate compliment for a delicious meal was a smile from ear to ear followed by the saying “mighty tasty!” A violent thunderstorm, hurricane or tornado was described as “nasty bad.” But most of all, Charlie was loving. He was uncommonly generous, his famous hugs lasted for minutes, he loved to hold hands and never enjoyed saying goodbyes. He was fiercely loved and cherished by his family.
Charlie had a special fondness and appreciation for pumpkin cheesecake, roller coasters, Christmas and animals. His favorites were dogs, lions, snakes and alligators. He never missed an episode of The Price is Right, the Weather Channel, This Old House, the March Madness College Basketball tournament, the Washington Football Team and his beloved Texas Longhorns. Not only did he enjoy watching sports, he actively participated in Special Olympics his entire life by playing softball, soccer, basketball and bowling. He enjoyed playing with his teammates and their annual trips to Richmond and Virginia Beach for the state game tournaments. We forever remember his joy and excitement and he will always be our champion. Of his many Special Olympics shirts, one in particular reads “Never underestimate the heart of a champion.” These words embody Charlie’s life and the person he was until the moment he passed. His passing and absence have left a hole in our hearts. We miss him dearly.
For nearly fifteen years, Charlie worked at Wildflour Bakery and Deli until the COVID-19 Stay at Home orders in March 2020. He happily and proudly worked the front counter greeting and bagging customer purchases while keeping the counters and tables spotless. Fridays were special and he celebrated a weekly tradition. To properly end his work week, Charlie would “close out his tab” with a crisp $20 used to purchase two Coke Zeros and a piece of cheesecake to enjoy over the weekend. Charlie’s career at Wildflour resulted from the job training and support services provided by the Fairfax County CSB. Charlie’s family is so appreciative and thankful to all the wonderful case managers who supported and took an interest in him.
Charles was born in Dallas, Texas and is preceded in death by his parents John Frank Collins and Margaret Kraus Mahurin, as well as his beloved brother John Joseph Collins and his grandparents who all adored him. He is survived by his second father Robert M. Mahurin, his sister Catherine Fraga and husband John and their children Tyler Fraga and Meredith Fraga.
Services will be private. Those wishing to honor Charlie’s memory are asked in lieu of flowers, to donate to Insight Memory Care Center (www.INSIGHTmcc.org) where Charlie attended their day program twice a week in his final five months. They are an exceptional Non-Profit organization and were very loving and kind to him.
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