Troy Smith Knutson-Collins

Troy Smith Knutson-Collins, 28, passed away on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, while on active duty with the United States Army 3rd Infantry Division, Fox Company 1-41 Field Artillery Unit, serving on deployment in Lithuania.

Troy was born on October 19, 1996, in Battle Creek, Michigan. He spent his early years in Battle Creek and graduated from Harper Creek High School in 2015. Following graduation, Troy worked several local jobs and played semi-pro football before enlisting in the United States Army.

He served his entire military career as a mechanic stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia. During his service, Troy deployed twice to Korea and was on his final deployment in Lithuania at the time of his passing. Known for his natural mechanical abilities, Troy loved working on projects around the house in his spare time. His hobbies included woodworking, football, and PC gaming. A passionate fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Dallas Cowboys, Troy was always full of energy—loud, sarcastic, fun-loving, and truly the life of the party. Above all, he was deeply family-oriented and loving.

Troy is survived by his wife, Ayrelle Knutson-Collins of Fort Stewart, Georgia; and five children: Braylee, Kendra, Emery, Leif, and Skadi. He is also survived by his father, Robert Collins, and wife, Tosha of Battle Creek, Michigan; brothers, Jonathan Vasquez, Trevor Collins, Dylan Willavize, Daniel Asher and Brenton Collins and sister, Alex Paradine, all of Battle Creek. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

Private services will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek, Michigan. Military honors will be rendered by the United States Army.

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