DA mourns the passing of Councillor Pat Collins

Democratic Alliance Councillor, Patrick Collins tragically passed away last night, June 8.

Cllr Collins leaves behind a legacy that will stand the test of time in the hearts of those he helped.

Shortly after joining the DA in 2009, Cllr Collins was elected as the interim chairperson of the Amajuba Constituency.

“In 2011, he was elected to represent the DA in Emadhlangeni [Utrecht], a town where he also served on the museum board, the Community Policing Forum, board of the retirement home and rate payers association for a period,” said Imran Keeka, Member of the KZN Provincial Legislature.

Dr Keeka described Cllr Collins as a man dedicated in ensuring all South Africans lived better lives.

“He often took complex matters into his own hands when he was tired of banging his head on council’s door. I have no doubt that so many will remember how he went out of his way so often to improve the lives of some of the most down trodden people in one of the most far flung areas of our province. I only recently learnt that he paid for the water of a community. I must admit, this touched the recesses of my soul,” explained Dr Keeka.

After struggling with health issues, Cllr Collins was admitted to hospital. However, this did not deter him from wishing to help others.

“When I visited him in hospital a few weeks back, when he was at his worst, he spent more time talking about what we can do to make things work. I tried fobbing off from the topic of striving and moil, but he persisted, asking about so many things he missed in the few weeks away from the hustle. He was more concerned about getting back to work.”

Hailed a true champion by the communities he served, Dr Keeka said the stalwart would always have a special place in his heart.

“I still recall Pat visiting me in 2010. With a DA membership book in hand at 8pm, sitting with me for a few hours, ensuring I signed up and then making sure I was put to work,” Dr Keeka reminisced.

Dr Keeka said fellow colleagues will always remember Pat’s vigorous work ethic, hardy demeanor, boldness and robust take on life.

“He was a mentor to so many of us. [He] scolded us when we needed it, patted us on the back often, and provided leadership naturally. He embodied the principles of freedom, fairness and opportunity. We will miss him so much.”

Dr Keeka offered his condolences to Cllr Collins’s family.

“To Liz, his wife, and his family, we say that Pat was a gift to us all. We will never fully comprehend your grief and pain, but we share in it. He is now free of the toils of this mortal world and returned to his Lord as is the lot of all of us. On behalf of the DA family, please accept from me, the expression of our condolences and deepest sympathies. We will never forget you Pat,” Dr Keeka concluded.

The Newcastle Advertiser extends its sincere condolences to the Collins family.