Richard J. Collins

Richard J. (Dick) Collins, 85, of West Des Moines was born in Des Moines on May 4, 1926 to James and May (Bloom) Collins. He passed away on June 10, 2011, after a brief illness. Dick graduated from North High School and at the age of 27 was drafted into the U.S. army serving during the Korean conflict and Vietnam 1. While in the service to his country, he received the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He married Irene Gustafson of West Des Moines in August of 1970. Dick retired from Equitable of Iowa in 1979. During his retirement, Dick enjoyed playing golf, gardening, woodworking and grocery shopping. He was an avid bowler for several years with bragging rights to two 300 games. He loved his Chicago Cubs and cheered for them even during their many slumps. Dick was a member of the First Federated Church. Dick is survived by his wife Irene; stepsons Steve (Val) Gustafson, Marty Gustafson, Mike Gustafson and Frank Gustafson all of West Des Moines; Carl “Duffy” (Vicki) Gustafson of Urbandale; eleven step grandchildren and numerous step great grandchildren. Graveside services are scheduled for Wednesday, June 15, at 10 a.m. at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines. Memorial donations may be made to the Veterans Affairs Administration or to his church.