June 04, 1949 - May 06, 2012. After a courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis disease, Bill passed away peacefully at Rouge Valley Hospital, Ajax. Bill was born and raised in Placentia, Newfoundland and graduated from Memorial University with a teaching degree. After starting his teaching career in Jerseyside, Newfoundland, he then taught as an Intermediate teacher and guidance counsellor for over 40 years with the Toronto District School Board where he touched and inspired the lives of thousands of students. He was one of eleven children born to the late Benedict Collins and is survived by his mother Lillian Collins of St. John’s. Bill is the beloved husband of Judy Collins (nee Nolan) for 41 years. He will forever be remembered by his sons Jason (Melanie) and Ben (Jana) and treasured grandson Hunter; devoted brothers Brendan, John, Pat, Jerry, David, Tony and the late Victor; loving sisters Irene, Joan and Cathy; mother-in-law Helen Nolan and multiple brothers and sisters-in-law; a multitude of nieces and nephews; along with countless other friends and family who were blessed to know him. Bill loved listening to good old rock and roll and Newfoundland music, playing softball, laughing, being with his family, having fun with friends and teaching elementary school children. Bill touched the lives of many people with his smile and generosity, and maintained his trademark sense of humour throughout his life. Resting at the McEachnie Funeral Home, 28 Old Kingston Road, Ajax, Ontario (905)428-8488. Visitations will be Tuesday, May 8 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.; Wednesday, May 9 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of Bill’s life with a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, May 10, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 1001 Ravenscroft Road, Ajax. If desired, donations may be sent to the Rouge Valley Health Centre ICU (for a portable ventilator) in Ajax, or the Canadian Lung Association for research into Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. In keeping with Bill’s love for animals the family also appreciates those who may choose to donate to the Durham Humane Society in Whitby in his memory. A Guest Book may be signed on-line at www.mceachniefuneral.ca