Obituary of Richard Thomas Collins

Richard Thomas Collins, 68, of Gravois Mills, Missouri, passed away the morning of January 21, 2013, after a courageous battle with cancer. Richard was born April 29, 1944 in St. Louis, Missouri to Irene (Kurtz) Collins and Thomas Vincent Collins. He graduated Webster High School, continuing on to receive a Bachelors Degree in Business Management from Central Missouri State University. He was a member of the United States Military, (Army) for 4 years, with an Honorable Discharge. On November 17, 1996 he was united in marriage to Frances Elaine (Giese) Collins, his constant companion for 16 years. At his time of passing, Richard was employed at Raymond's Boat and Motor Sales, owned by Charlene and Raymond Ollison. Together they developed a close-knit friendship, having spent more than 47 years in the Marine business. His passion was in his work, and raising his daughter, Tristan Paige Collins. His love for animals motivated him to give his time, energy and various other contributions to the welfare of dogs. His hobbies included an avid interest in politics, current events, and spending time with his many dogs. Richard is survived by his wife, Frances Collins, his daughter, Tristan Paige Collins, sister, Marianne (Collins) Blake, his identical twin brother, Thomas Richard Collins and spouse Marsha (Deckert) Collins, James and spouse Diane Collins, Heather (Collins) Sanger and spouse, and Debra (Blumhorst) Collins, as well as grandchildren and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Irene and Thomas Collins, and Brenda Lee (Smith) Collins. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, with details being posted in the newspaper as date and time are established.