Dora Anna Shaner Collins

October 7, 1939 – June 10, 2026

Dora Anna Shaner Collins, a woman with a gentle heart and immense faith, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, at the age of 86. Born in Iowa Falls, Iowa, on October 7, 1939, she lived in the area most of her life. Dora spent her life weaving beauty, hard work, and love into the world around her and the many lives she touched.

On April 27, 1961, Dora married her one and only love, Bryce Collins. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in partnership, working side-by-side on the family farm. Her devotion to Bryce was truly amazing—a testament to a lifetime of shared dreams, long days in the fields, and unwavering companionship. Together, they were blessed with two children, Ron and Karen.

Her family was the centerpiece of her world, and she poured boundless love into her roles as a mother, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was also a loyal friend, always ready with an open heart, a listening ear, and a warm smile. Her kitchen and her living room were places of laughter, comfort, and lifelong memories.

Dora’s immeasurable faith in God was the foundation of everything she did, guiding her steps and inspiring her gentle spirit. She was a true prayer warrior interceding for others. Dora leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and unconditional love that will continue to inspire everyone who knew her.

Dora was a pillar of her local community. She was deeply committed to the different communities she lived in and took great joy in her time with many local church groups and community clubs. She brought people together through her love of food and hospitality as the owner of a small, welcoming cafe in Popejoy. It was a place where neighbors became friends and everyone felt welcomed.

She was also a true artist at heart. Whether she was bringing a canvas to life with her paintings, designing unique jewelry, or meticulously sewing for those she loved, herhands were rarely still. Her creations were a reflection of her soul—bright, thoughtful, and full of love. For Dora, art was not just a hobby; it was a way to share joy and connect with others.

Dora’s love and legacy live on through her family: her children, Ron (Jody) Collins and Karen (Bob) Bouska; her cherished grandchildren, Joe (Abby) Bouska, Nick (Katie) Bouska, and Kyle (Kelly) Bouska; and her adored great-grandchildren, Cory, Evan, Haven, Bennett, and Wilder. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law Glenda Collins Plant and her husband Tom: sister-in-law Diann Shaner; brothers-in-law Allan Bangtson, Richard Rogers, and Ed Womack; many beloved nieces and nephews; the Lawson family; and a wide circle of treasured friends who were captivated by her sweet spirit.

She was welcomed into heaven by her beloved husband, Bryce; her parents, Harold and Margaret Shaner; her parents-in-law, Ralph and Adeline Collins; her siblings, Bob Shaner, Bonnie Shaner Rogers, and Mary Shaner Bangtson; and her sister-in-law Sharon Collins Womack.

We are deeply grateful to the support of so many wonderful family members, friends, and the nursing teams at Parkview Assisted Living, Arlington Place, and St. Croix Hospice, who provided such compassionate care to her.

A celebration of Dora's life will take place at 10:00 AM on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the Evangelical Free Church, 19939 Co Rd D20, Iowa Falls, Iowa, 50126. In accordance to her wishes, no graveside service will be held, as she has generously donated her body to the University of Iowa to support medical advancement and science.