Richard Collins, Sr.

Richard L. Collins, Sr., 83, of Mansfield, died Thursday morning, April 06, 2006 at Mansfield Memorial Homes after an extended illness. Born September 20, 1922 in Mansfield, he was the son of Manford and Edith Houston Collins. Mr. Collins graduated from Mansfield Senior High in 1940 and served in the U.S. Army during WWII in the 747 M.P. Battalion. He retired from Martin Hardware Company, where he was a former Vice-President and General Manager, in 1976 after 32 years of service. He was a member of the First Church of God. A member and Past President of Johnny Appleseed Wood Carvers and a member of the National Wood Carvers Association, he was noted for his donations of thousands of wood carvings to area nursing homes. He was a member of Frank Marquis Lodge 690, F & AM Mansfield Chapter #28, Council #94, Knight Templar #21, and the Retmans Club. Mr. Collins was also a member of the Local AARP, Kiwanis Club, and a former member of many other organizations. He was also an avid gardener in the Men's Garden Club and was proud of the many flowers he planted at the Conard House. Mr. Collins was Past President of the Mansfield Retail Merchants Association, Past Treasurer of Ohio Contractors Association, and the Home Builders Association. He had a great compassion for helping others. He and his wife loved to travel, especially on many cruises.

He is survived by his wife of 58 ½ years, Ruth Ann Wolf Collins, whom he married June 22, 1947; two sons and daughters-in-law, Rick Jr. and Vicki Collins of Madison, and Jim and Amy Collins of Mansfield; two daughters and one son-in-law, Kathy and Dale Hammond of Massillon, and Ann Collins of Cambridge; 12 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, and twin brother, Rex Collins.

Friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 9, 2006 at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday at the funeral home conducted by Pastor Larry Collins. Military graveside services conducted by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Church of God Building Fund.