Dr. Joe Collins, Surgeon and Physician Executive, Dead At Age 73 After Long Illness
By Dr. James Palermo, Editor-In-Chief // June 2, 2016
memorial service will be held Friday, June 3
Joseph L. Collins, MD, of Indian Harbour Beach, Florida died May 30 at the age of 73 following a long illness, which he approached with courage, tenacity and grace.
He is survived by his wife Susan; daughter Jennifer Bloomer of Wallingford Vermont; sons Gregory of Boston, Massachusetts and Matthew of Ocoee, Florida; a grandson Jake Bloomer of Vermont; brother George of Vero Beach, Florida; and brother in law Robert Ferullo of Woburn, Massachusetts.
He also leaves many cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother James and two sisters, Catherine Collins and Paula Collins Mazzio.
Joe deeply enjoyed a long career as a surgeon in Waltham, Massachusetts and Melbourne, Florida.
When health issues prevented him from continuing his surgical practice he embarked on a second career as Medical Director at Health First Health Plans.
In both careers his highest priorities were always ensuring quality, safe care for his patients and improving the overall health of the Space Coast community. He felt very fortunate to be able to work every day at something he loved to do.
Joe had many interests including boating, travel and a profound love of music. He approached the world with sensitivity and a sense of curiosity that allowed him to engage a wide variety of topics with passion and respect.
He applied his patience to a love of repairing and building things—a skill that served him well in his career and life. His humor and intellect will be sorely missed by his family, friends and those he has helped along his journey.
On a personal note, Joe and I worked closely together as physician executives at Health First for several years, during which time we frequently conferred on issues and circumstances related to patients and physicians within the organization, and healthcare in general.
He was the epitome of professional integrity and I held his advice and counseling in the highest regard. Compassion, kindness and special insight into how to best meet the needs of others were Joe’s stock-in-trade.
A memorial service will be held Friday, June 3 at 5 p.m. in the Brownlie and Maxwell Funeral Chapel, located at 1010 Palmetto Avenue in Melbourne. Family visitation will take place for one hour prior to the service.
Anyone planning an expression of sympathy is asked to consider: Bridges, 1694 Cedar Street, Rockledge, FL 32955; or Little Friends, 140 N. Wright Street, Naperville, IL 60540.
Brownlie & Maxwell Funeral Home is serving the family.
ABOVE MAP: A memorial service will be held for Dr. Joe Collins on Friday, June 3 at 5 p.m. in the Brownlie and Maxwell Funeral Chapel, located at 1010 Palmetto Avenue in Melbourne.
