STOUGHTON - Collin Raye Ace, age 25, of Stoughton, passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026. He was born on June 26, 2001, in Madison, WI, the son of Jerry Ace and Deb McKernan-Ace.

Collin had a lifelong love of learning and was deeply engaged as a student at Stoughton High School. His exceptional writing and communication skills shone through his work as editor of the school newspaper, The Norse Star, and his participation on the Forensics team. Throughout his time at Stoughton High School he excelled in Quiz Bowl, was a member of the tennis team, multiple school bands, was inducted into the National Honor Society and was crowned prom king his junior year. In 2019, he graduated as valedictorian of his class. He continued his academic success at Rutgers University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2023 with degrees in English, Linguistics and History. Collin learned eight different languages, was a Quiz Bowl master and was awarded the James Suydam Prize in English Composition. During his time in college, he embraced the many cultural experiences that the East Coast offered.

In addition to his academic accomplishments, Collin always cherished being a country boy. He was an active member of the Triangle Troopers 4-H club where he enjoyed raising and showing sheep at local and state fairs. He loved watching Jeopardy and participating in all trivia events. He had a lifelong passion for reading, especially mythology, and treasured time spent cooking with his mom and for his family. He had an intense love for anything made with peanut butter. Collin truly embraced his Irish heritage with the goal of visiting Ireland with his mom one day. A devoted sports fan, he enthusiastically cheered for the Chicago Bears, the Chicago Cubs, Rutgers football and basketball, and the Wisconsin Badgers.

Collin will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, and quiet brilliance. He was meticulous, hardworking and witty. He loved his family deeply and enjoyed spending time with them, especially playing pickleball and tennis with his brother. Becoming an uncle brought him immeasurable joy and he treasured every moment spent in that role.

Collin is survived by his parents, Jerry and Deb; siblings, Justine Ace, Lauren Ace (Ashley) “her little man”, Mitchell Ace (Ravenne), and Kendra (Ace) Gonzalez; niece, Aria Cole; grandma, Judy McKernan of Oregon; grandpa, Romaine Ace of Oregon; many uncles, aunts and cousins; Fabian, his German exchange brother; and many special friends from Stoughton High School and Rutgers University. He is further survived by the beloved family dog, Reggie. He was preceded in death by his grandpa, William McKernan, grandma, Sandy Ace and nephew Kashton Gonzalez. The family’s cherished dogs, Elvis and Cooper also preceded Collin in death.

A Celebration of Life and luncheon will be held at SCHUSTER’S FARM, 1326 US-12, Deerfield, from 12 noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026. Reflections will begin at 1 p.m.

In honor of Collin’s love of reading, those attending are encouraged to bring a book for donation to the local library.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com

Gunderson Stoughton
Funeral & Cremation Care
1358 Hwy 51 N. at Jackson St.
(608) 873-4590

Collin R Ace

June 26, 2001 - July 05, 2026

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