Orris James Collins

Orris James Collins, 93, beloved husband, father and trustworthy leader in his community passed away August 28, 2025 after 68 years of marriage to his wife Elizabeth May Collins. He is survived by his two children, daughter Diana Collins, and son Ronald and wife Cassie Collins. He is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and one brother Michael Collins, one sister Carol Potter. He is preceded in death by father Orris M. Collins, mother Beulah(West), sisters Agnes Brannan, Marie Larson, Gladys Hildebrand, brothers Bud, Gene, Doug, John, Albert and Willard Collins.

Orris served in the Korean war and was awarded Korean Service Medal with two bronze service stars, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and commendation ribbon with medal pendant.

Orris retired in1986 from Pueblo Depot Activity where he traveled extensively for installing and repairing radar equipment and NIKE Hercules Hipar modifications. He also worked at the Airport Gulf Station, Pueblo for his brother-in-law Conrad Wawrzyczny; he previously worked at CF&I, and he farmed and was a seed distributor for Triumph Seed Co for local farmers for many years.

Orris helped form the St. Charles Mesa Water District and the previous St. Charles Mesa Water Association and was on the board of Directors for 33 years. He served in the Colorado Rural Water Association from 1990-1998. Orris started both his children in agriculture and 4H with horses, cattle and sheep.

In these last years, Orris enjoyed Thursday family gatherings especially with Glenda and Ron Renoux, Conrad and Sally Wawrzyczny and friends. Special thanks to close friend Brian Maloney.

A Celebration of Life will be held at T.G. McCarthy Funeral Home, located at 329 Goodnight Ave, Pueblo, CO 81004, on September 18, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.