April 16, 1938 - January 21, 2026
OBITUARY
Cookie was born in Alameda County on April 16th, 1938, and fell asleep in death on January 21st, 2026. Born and raised in Oakland California she grew up with her mom and four sisters. She was a graduate of Castlemont high school. Like most young ones she would love to go out dancing, listening to her oldies, and to swoon over the one and only Elvis. In her younger years, having fun and being with her sisters and family was her happy place.
In time she had two children, Richard and Kathleen Collins. Everyone says “they have” the best mother in the world, WE ACTUALLY DID! She was a very petite woman, with the most enormous heart. She loved and protected her children fiercely, and gave every thing she had to make sure they were taken care of, and above all, that they knew they were loved. As a single parent she showed up for every baseball game, every swim class, she would be part of every bake sale, swim parties in the backyard, surprise goodie bags, and the list goes on. Every summer she would get tickets and take not only her kids, but her nieces and nephews to go see the circus, all while working a full time job. Nothing changed when her grandchildren and great grandchildren arrived. She loved spending quality time with each individually, as well as in a group. She loved to laugh, play, and help her family in any way possible. Feeding family and friends was automatic when they came to visit, and the food never seemed to be hot enough for her. The expression “You want me to nuke that for you?” was not uncommon. She always wanted to take care of others, and no one was ever left out.
During her lifetime, she had a variety of jobs, but most of her career was spent as a machinist. She worked building Caterpillar tractors as a drill press operator, and as a result she had biceps bigger than most men. Next, her skills were used at High Vacuum Apparatus, which built valves for use in scientific, industrial, and semiconductor applications. Later in life she decided to work during her retirement at the neighborhood Walmart where she continued keeping busy and building friendships. Her work ethic was second to none.
Cookie was blessed, and is survived by her 2 children: son Richard Collins, daughter Kathy (Tony) Ginter. Her 4 grandchildren: Vanessa Archuleta, Malissa (Joel) Luvianos , Anthony(Tasha) Ginter, and Robert Aguilera. 5 great grandchildren: Destinee Morrison, Lola Luvianos, Jocelyn Luvianos, Aiyanna Meza, and Robert Aguilera Jr.
She is also survived by her two loving sisters Juanita McAllister, and Berta Quinones Fimbrez, as well as many nieces and nephews that she loved.
One thing that she hated, was the sadness that came along with funeral services. So in keeping with her wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Her interment will be private. She would prefer for everyone to remember and focus on the good and happy times spent together. So in her honor, if you would like to share your happy memories here, please do.
Thank you in advance!
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Collins family.