It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Hans L. Kollinger, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who departed this world on March 22, 2026, at the age of 93. Hans passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital.
Hans was born on March 18, 1933, in the village of Ernsthausen, Yugoslavia. He was the son of Lorenz and Susanna (Laux) Kollinger. Hans was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Katharina (Peter) Grujanac.
In 1954, Hans married Helene (Noheimer) Kollinger, whom he met in Chicago following their immigration to the United States. Their marriage of over 71 years was a testament of their love and devotion to one another. He is survived by his wife Helene as well as their children Hans R. (Jacqueline) Kollinger of Carmel, IN, and their children Hans S. Kollinger, Heidi (Chris) Carnahan, Erika (Jim) Seymour, Jacqueline (Matt) Burkholder, and Phillip (Brittany) Kollinger, Peter E. (Kate) Kollinger of Paris, IL and their children Peter H. Kollinger and Lauren (David) Lowinger and Rita (Jim) Woodworth of Indianapolis, IN, and their children Eric (Amanda) Woodworth, Luke (Victoria) Woodworth, and Alex Woodworth. Hans’s legacy also extends through his 12 great-grandchildren Stella, Zander, Drake, Stella, Lincoln, Milla, Josephine, Anders, Lorenzo, Benjamin, Amelia, and Carmen. His family was his pride and joy.
In Chicago, Hans learned English at night school while working at Acme Tool and Die, then the First State Bank of Chicago, and sold real estate prior to moving to the Effingham area. He ventured into what would become his favorite opportunity as a dairy farmer after which he finished his working career as a nursing home administrator at Lake Land Nursing Center. He also found great joy in tending to the animals he had over the years on their Beecher City farm. Hans had a passion for Arabian horses, the highlight of which was when a horse he bred and raised went on to win five U.S. National titles. Hans also enjoyed playing chess and cards, never shying away from a friendly challenge. Known for his wit and intelligence, Hans was a respected member of his community. He loved conversation with people, always eager to learn about their stories to find a connection to their lives through the people and places he experienced in his own life.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to Catholic Charities of Effingham, IL, and/or Beecher City Senior Meals Assistance.
We remember Hans not only for his passions, but for unique ways he shaped the lives of everyone he encountered. His life was a testament to the power of grit, resourcefulness, and the will to survive. His spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
While there will not be a wake, there will be a memorial funeral mass at 4:00 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Shumway, immediately followed by his burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Services are in the care of Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham.
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