John always took the time to explain complicated technical processes to me so that I could do my job better. He was one of the sharpest among us and always calmly considered a problem before addressing it - something I started to emulate and something everyone who worked with him knew the value of. He will be greatly missed.

John was a fascinating guy to work with, we bonded over a mutual love of math and a desire to understand families of solutions, not single solutions. I admired him for how technical he stayed and how he was always willing to discuss his work from first principles and help me understand something new. As I left his department he told me “from one PhD to another, good luck!” From one PhD to another, farewell my friend, it was awesome getting to know you!
Andrew Rogers

I am sorry to learn of John’s passing.  John helped coach junior athletes in the sport of rifle shooting and was a coach who truly cared about the athletes.  He helped them by pushing the athletes to strive for perfection , in his own unique way.  Wishing the family peace during this time.

Was so sorry to hear of John's passing. He was a kind person and it was a privilege to work with him here at Aerospace.

My introduction to John occured in a large conference room meeting  by the coffee table. I had heard of him before the meeting, but I could now put a face with the name and reputation. As the meeting progressed, he said little, but he listened to everything. It was clear why his reputation preceded him - when he did speak, people listened and respected him. We were lucky to have his counsel, and I feel blessed to have been able to work with him. Thank you for letting him be a part of our family as well.

- Marion Thompson

OBITUARY

John F. Collins

August 12, 1947 – September 26, 2023

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