Arden Boyd Collier

COLLIER, ARDEN B., of Clarkston, passed away on July 19, 2026, at 84 years of age.

Arden was the loving husband of Mary “Ann” (née Dillard) for 64 wonderful years; beloved father of Terry (George) Porritt and Arden (Donna) Collier II; and proud “Papa” of Kenny (Leah), Marilynn, Mason (Ashtin), Ron (Dennise), Amanda (Jason), Arden (Jade) III, and Kevin. He was also the cherished great-grandfather of Tyler, Maddie, Cameron, Carl, Cameron, Ronnie, and Hunter.

He is survived by his sisters Barbara (Bob) Gossage, Mary (the late Ed) Arndt, Pattie (Ronald) Lovins, Peggy (Travis) Nichols, and Debbie (the late Ricky) Moore. Arden was preceded in death by his sister, Bettye (the late Johnnie) Nutt, and his brother, William Collier.

Born in Blytheville to Everett and Frankie (née Booker) Collier, Arden met the love of his life, Ann, while they were in high school. Together they began a lifelong journey, eventually moving to Michigan, where Arden built both a successful career and a beautiful life centered on family.

A skilled tool and die maker, Arden dedicated more than 30 years to Ross Valves before retiring in 2008. He was known as a hardworking, dependable man who took pride in his craft and in providing for those he loved.

Family was always Arden's greatest priority. He was the first to lend a hand whenever someone was in need, quietly putting others before himself without expecting anything in return. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering support left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Arden's passion for sports was legendary. A devoted supporter of the Clarkston High School Wolves and Orchard Lake St. Mary's Eaglets, he was much more than a fan. He faithfully served on the Chain Gang for Clarkston football for an incredible 48 years and was a dedicated member of the Clarkston Booster Club for 50 years. He also spent many years coaching youth sports, investing his time and encouragement in generations of young athletes.

He enjoyed golfing, cheering on his beloved Detroit Tigers, supporting America's troops, and kicking up his heels line dancing with family and friends. A true sports enthusiast, Arden meticulously kept scorebooks and game logs and had an amazing memory for statistics. He could recall scores, hits, runs, and even the inning in which they occurred, making him the person everyone wanted to talk sports with.

Arden's sense of humor often appeared without warning, catching family and friends by surprise with perfectly timed wit. In quieter moments, he found simple joy sitting outside feeding the birds, appreciating the peace of nature.

Above all, Arden will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and Papa to absolutely everyone, loyal friend, and a man whose generosity, humility, and love for family and community defined his life. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, his service, and the example he set for others.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 11 AM at Waypoint Church, 8400 Dixie Hwy, Clarkston.  Arrangements entrusted to COATS FUNERAL HOME-WATERFORD. To post a tribute, visit www.CoatsFuneralHome.com.

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