In Memory of Jim Collins
In Memory of Jim Collins
Submitted by Cary Solberg
The rafting community lost our friend & longtime OWA member Jim Collins aka the Benevolent Dictator or OGO (oh great one) Saturday, August 14 from brain cancer at age 71. Jim Collins was born in Mendota, Illinois and grew up in Salem, Oregon. He received his BA from Pacific Lutheran University in 1972. He served in the U.S. Army from 1972-1974. Jim returned to Portland and received his law degree from Northwestern School of Law at Lewis & Clark Law College. He made a career of practicing criminal law in Portland beginning and ending as a defense lawyer with some time mid-career as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. Jim had a passion for all things outdoors. He began white water rafting at an early age which led to membership with the Oregon Whitewater Association. During his years with OWA he developed a network of close friends and enjoyed many river trips throughout the West. In Oregon the Rogue and Deschutes were favorites. His favorite trip was the “once in a lifetime” adventure on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. Jim made 19 trips down the Grand Canyon and knew every rapid, campsite, side hike, rock type and wildlife. On many recent trips he purchased, organized and packed the group meals while coordinating the group gear. His long time friend Frank Mayer remembers the first trip in 1996 where you organized it with many phone calls and no google spreadsheets.
Cards can be sent to the family via Glenda Wheeler, 1525 SE 59th, Portland OR 97215. Glenda & family plan to have a gathering of friends likely in October. In lieu of flowers you can donate in his memory to Providence Cancer Research at this link: https://give.
He will be missed by many on the river.
Photos submitted by Cary Solberg.
