Connie Lee Collins, born September 19, 1954, in Kansas City, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home in Spring Hill, Kansas, surrounded by her family, at the age of 71. Connie was someone who found joy in everyday moments and the people she loved most.
Connie grew up in Kansas City, Kansas, and graduated from Bonner Springs High School. She spent more than 30 years working in banking, a career she took pride in and where she built many lasting relationships. While working at Security National Bank, Connie and Richard meet. They connected quickly, and on February 23, 1979, they were married. Over the years, they shared many simple routines together, including taking car rides just to get out, talk, and enjoy the day.
Connie had a bit of a spark to her and was independent‑minded in a way that those close to her appreciated. She knew what she liked, had her own way of doing things, and her family often smiled at that part of her personality.
Family was at the heart of Connie’s life. She loved Richard and her children fiercely and was always there to help them, cheer them up, offer advice, or simply hang out and laugh. She cherished big family cookouts, lunches with her brother and sister, loudly cheering for her children and grandchildren at their sporting events, and simply being together. She adored her great‑grandchildren, who brought her so much joy.
Connie was preceded in death by her mother Peggy Yoerger, and father Larry Koska.
She is survived by her husband, Richard, daughter April Hill (Rob), sons Richard Jr. (Lynn), Michael (Kaylan), Kevin (Maria), and Jonathan, grandchildren Ryen Kelly (Keegan) and Brenden Hill, Abigail and Richard III (†), Elsie and Eli, Miguel and Maddy, Evan and Maliyah, great-grandchildren Charlotte, Kallahan, and Watson Kelly, brother Mike Koska (Linda), sisters Debbie Warren (Steve), Laura Gibson, and Elizabeth (Beth) Koska, and many nieces and nephews, and extended family members.
Connie loved her pets, who were steady companions and brought her comfort and happiness throughout her life. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to any animal shelter in her name.
Connie will be remembered for her steady presence, her love for simple pleasures, and the way she cared for the people around her. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be 10:00-11:00 AM, with the Funeral Mass starting at 11:00 AM, Friday, September 25, 2026 at Queen of the Holy Rosary, 22779 Metcalf Rd, Bucyrus, KS 66013. A luncheon will follow services in the parish hall.