Obituary: Martin W. “Marty” Collins IV, 56, formerly of Branford

Obituary courtesy of W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home:

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Martin W. “Marty” Collins, IV, on Tuesday July 6, 2021 in Wilmington, NC.

Marty was born on September 7, 1964 in New Haven, CT, son of Marie Zahrjczuk Nardella of Branford and the late Martin W. Collins, III.

Marty grew up in Branford and upon graduating from Branford High School he joined the U. S. Navy. After the Navy, he enrolled in the Culinary Institute of America, where he graduated third in his class. After many years of utilizing his “culinary expertise” Marty relocated to Southport, NC with his family and started Collins Builders.

Besides his mother Marty is survived by his children, Eugene and Allison Collins; his sister, Mia Collins and brothers John Collins and Sam Nardella, and the extended Nardella family, as well as several nieces and nephews and friends, including his dear friend Chipper Milles. Marty was predeceased by his wife Elizabeth “Anne” Collins, stepfather Michael “Mickey” Nardella, his maternal grandparents John and Anna Zahrjczuk, and his paternal grandparents, Martin and Ida Collins.

Marty loved watching football, playing golf and anything having to do with being on or near the water. He enjoyed cooking and entertaining for friends and family especially during his visits home. Marty will be forever remembered for his quick wit, hearty laugh and that “ s*#t eating grin.”

There are no calling hours, and the funeral will be private.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Community Dining Room, 30 Harrison Ave., Branford, CT 06405, or the American Heart Association, 5 Brookside Drive, Wallingford, CT 06492.