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AMHERST - David E. Collins, 87, of Amherst, formerly of Marblehead died Feb. 5, 2013.
Son of the late William and Hettie (Houpt) Collins, beloved husband of Carol S. Collins, father of Bea Grossman and her husband Bob Grossman of Atlanta, Ga., Scott Collins and her wife Tucker Bryant of Florida and Bill Collins and his wife Karen Dzendolet of Pelham, grandchildren, Erin Grossman and Ryan Grossman of Los Angeles, Calif.
He was predeceased by his son Daniel Aaron Collins, brother of Beryl Garbow of West Haven, Conn., and the late Sheila Solomon.
Born Jan. 2, 1926, in London, England, he came to the United States with his family in 1940. He served in the Army Air Force in the Philippines in World War II and was a tail gunner on a B-24.
He graduated from University of Connecticut as a mechanical engineer in 1950 and married Carol Simon in 1952. His career at General Electric brought him to the Aircraft Engine Group in Lynn 1965, when he brought his family to Marblehead.
His life encompassed much more than his family and career. He dedicated countless hours to community service, working locally and state-wide to help the disabled, creating fair housing opportunities and volunteering in many ways at Temple Sinai in Marblehead.
In retirement, he worked with SCORE to assist new and growing businesses. In 1976, he was honored with the Gerald Phillipe Award, GE's highest recognition for community service.
The funeral service will be held on Sunday, Feb. 10, at 11 a.m. at the Stanetsky Hymanson Memorial Chapel at 10 Vinnin St., Salem/Swampscott line. Burial will immediately follow at the Temple Sinai Cemetery in Danvers. Memorial observance Sunday only, will immediately follow at 38 Outlook Road, in Swampscott.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Daniel A. Collins Scholarship at the Salem State University Foundation, 352 Lafayette St., Salem, MA 01970 or The Hospice of The Fisher Home, 1165 North Pleasant St., Amherst, MA 01002.
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Carol,Bea& Bob,Bill & Karen,Scott& Tucker and Beryl.
First of all David loved his family and had to work pretty hard to keep up with Carol.David was always a character with many tales to tell. He wanted to be of help to everybody. I'm so glad that we are part of the same family and hope to get to see you in the near future.
Sandie Eckhardt
February 13, 2013
To the Collin's family! He always bought a smile and laughter to our group at the Belchertown Senior Center! He is sadly missed by all of us, but I know he will have a seat at God's table!! Mary Ellen Englert
Mary Ellen Englert
February 12, 2013
Scott, Bea, Bill and Mrs. Collins,
Please know you are all in my thoughts. I have a lot of wonderful memories of the entire family and hopefully your memories will help you in this time. Take care.
Julie Greenbaum
Julie Greenbaum
February 10, 2013
Bill, Mrs. Collins and family.
Condolences on your loss. May his memory be a blessing to all of you.
Dan Berg
February 9, 2013
Dear Carol, Bill and Family,
My warmest wishes to you on losing David. His warmth,generosity and great smile will be remembered
Mary Byrne, SSU
Mary Byrne
February 9, 2013
Dear Carol and Family,
David's many friends at Salem State University will miss him. His and your generosity support of students impacted many, many lives over the years. Likewise, David's wise counsel as a member of the Salem State Foundation Board greatly benefited our community.
Our thoughts are with you. Sincerely,
Cynthia McGurren
February 9, 2013
Dave was a special person who always seemed to overflow with warmth and kindness towards everyone he encountered. My thoughts are with you and all his loved ones during this difficult time.
Cassie Carnevale
February 9, 2013
Carol, Bea&Bob, Bill&Karen, Scott&Tucker:
My thoughts are with you. I am glad that I let your family know how much I admired them. It was important for your dad to attend Happy Occasions as well as Sad Occasions. So many people only manage to make it on sad occasions. Family, even extended family, was so very important to your dad.
Cheryl E. Eckhardt
Bridgeport, CT
February 8, 2013
He always brought a smile, good conversation and a friendly hand to shake.
Don Carnevale
February 8, 2013
Dear Carol & family,
When Scott left the phone message, Mark & I were pretty certain what she would be telling us. We are sadden and hope you will find yourself surrounded by the love and support of family and friends during your time of sorrow. --in memory of Joe and honor of Jimmie--- Penny
Penny Carnevale
February 8, 2013
Dave was a mentor to me almost from the day I joined GE. He was missed when he retired and he will be missed by all his freinds and relatives. Yesh lo shalom.
February 8, 2013
Bea,
I've been thinking of you every day since I last heard from you, and am so sorry to hear that your dad has passed. My prayers are with you and all your family at this difficult time. Please extend my sympathy to your mother.
Carol Daniels
February 7, 2013
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