Dolla and Larry Collison

COLLISON, Dolla M. (Booth)
COLLISON, Larry K.

Dolla M. (Booth) Collison and Larry K. Collison, who were married nearly 55 years, passed away less than 24 hrs. apart, in their home in Rockford, WA., while surrounded by loved ones. Dolla left us on Feb. 10, as Larry held her hand. Larry followed on Feb. 11. Dolla was born on April 13, 1938, to May and Roger Booth. Larry on June 13, 1936, to Vay and Joe Collison. They are preceded in death by their parents, and survived by four daughters: Debbie Berggren, Carol Willburn, Julie Templin and Amanda Villaro; and four sons: Ed, Larry, Bill, and Chuck; sixteen grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. Larry served for several years in the U.S. Coast Guard. For a time, he and Dolla lived in a lighthouse on a Puget Sound island. After his honorable discharge, he worked as a heavy duty mechanic, until his retirement. He loved working with his hands and could design, build, or fix almost anything. He is survived by two brothers, Richard and Bob; and a sister, Joan Erickson, along with their families. Dolla was primarily a homemaker, and spent most of her life in the company of children. She loved animals and they loved her. When her children were little, she was often busy making homemade dolls, stuffed animals and quilts that her children and grandchildren still treasure. She is proceeded in death by a brother, Roger Booth, and survived by her five sisters, Phyllis Marvin, Fay Hartsock, Mildred Morrison, Pat Robinson and Helen Lilly; and their families. Larry and Dolla took pride in their numerous children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and enjoyed visiting with family and friends. Their sage advice and joyous senses of humor will be greatly missed. Although their absence will be felt by all, we can take comfort in the knowledge that they will be forever together.
The family is planning a memorial gathering this summer. Friends and family will be notified when the date is finalized. Donations may be made in Larry and Dolla's names to The American Lung Association, or Hospice of Spokane.