Collins, Catherine (Evanchik)
Age 99, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026 in Sandwich, MA.
Beloved wife of the late Winthrop (“Bim”) Collins and devoted mother of Janice and her husband James Immerman of Concord, MA and Deborah and her husband Louis Silverman of Newport Beach, CA. She was the cherished grandmother of David (Jenn), Sara, Kevin, Sam and Michael (Maddy), and the proud great-grandmother of Avery.
Catherine (“Kaye”) lived a full and meaningful life marked by devotion to family, service to her country, a long career in nursing, and a deep love of travel and community. She was one of seven children. During her childhood, Kaye and her brother spent time in foster care, an experience that shaped her strength, resilience, and compassion.
Kaye attended Stamford High School and continued her education at the Stamford Hospital School of Nursing. Her calling as a nurse led her to serve as a Cadet in the US Navy Nurse Corps and later as an Ensign. During the Korean War, she served at hospitals in Oakland and Miami, and achieved the rank of Lieutenant in the US Navy.
In addition to her military service, Kaye worked as a nurse for over 45 years in many settings, including hospitals, schools, private care, and industry. Kaye was an active member the Stamford Hospital Nurses Alumni Association for almost 70 years. While at Pitney Bowes, she met her husband Bim, with whom she built a life and family. Together, they raised two daughters and created many treasured memories.
Kaye had an adventurous spirit and a remarkable love of travel. She, with her family in tow, visited 49 of the 50 states. She also enjoyed many trips in retirement with the Pitney Bowes “Golden Oldies” traveling locally and internationally.
Kaye gave generously of her time to her community, especially to the Saint Mary’s Russian Orthodox Church where she was a proud parishioner and volunteer. In addition, she volunteered for many years at schools, libraries, the Blood Mobile, the American Cancer Society, and many other causes close to her heart.
In 2017, Kaye moved to Chelmsford, MA, to be closer to her daughter and to make it easier for family to spend time together. She spent more than 8 years at the Summer Place Residence where she continued to enjoy the people and activities around her. While in Chelmsford, she attended the All Saints’ Episcopal Church. She spent her final days at the Decatur House in Sandwich, MA where she received excellent care.
Above all, Kaye loved being with her family and helping others. She was almost too caring at times, often rooting for the opposition at her grand-children’s games if they were losing badly. She had an ability to connect with people from all walks of life, no matter who they were. She was always fun to be around and enjoyed dancing, a daily glass of white wine (with one ice cube) and trips to the casino.
Catherine will be remembered for her independence, generosity, sense of adventure, dedication to helping others, and deep love for her family. Her life touched many people, and her memory will remain a lasting blessing to all who knew and loved her.
A memorial service will be held at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, Billerica Road, Chelmsford, MA at July 21 at 10:30 AM. Donations in her memory can be made Nurses Honor Guard (nurseshonorguardma.com) or the charity of your choice.