Eva Mary Collins

Eva Collins, 81, of Great Falls, left this world on Tuesday, March 28, 2017. A wake will start at 5:00 pm on Thursday, March 30, 2017 at Sts. Peter & Paul Chapel, 200 44th St South. The funeral liturgy will be at 10:00 am on Friday, March 31, 2017 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 201 44th Street South. Interment at Mount Olivet Cemetery will follow. Arrangements are in the care of O’Connor Funeral Home. Eva was born January 14, 1936 to Thomas (Kihew) and Mary Tootoosis (Whitford) on the Poundmaker Cree Nation in Saskatchewan, Canada. At the age of two, Eva was raised by her maternal grandparents after the loss of her mother. She was taken back to her mother’s homeland in Manitou Lake, Saskatchewan where she was taught to survive off the land and learn the traditional values of the People. Eva was self-taught and the education she attained came from family. As a young woman Eva was surrounded by her grandfather’s horsemanship and lifestyle which fostered a strong bond with these magnificent animals. She carried this on with her children by supporting their involvement in rodeo. Later in life, Eva also participated in ceremonies of the Cree People and remained close to her spirituality as she was proud of her heritage and culture. Eva began beading at a young age. Much of her work can be found in many museums. She loved to bead and had a distinct pattern that everyone knew. In the summer of 1968, Eva met William T. Collins and they became common law husband and wife. If you knew my mother you would agree she was a true Native Princess, always beautiful; our Pride of Poundmaker Cree Nation. She loved everyone she knew; and will be missed by all who knew her. Eva is survived by her husband Bill Collins; children Larry Whitford, Rick Whitford, Debbie Bost, Chris Oller, and Gary Whitford; as well as numerous grandchildren and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Mary Tootoosis; and three brothers Francis, Walter, and Jack Tootoosis. Miyo Aciho Ekwa Wipac. Kikawapamitin Nikawiy. Journey well and see you soon my beloved mother.