Photo courtesy of William J. Burke & Sons / Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes
SARATOGA SPRINGS, New York
Jun 19, 1939 – Nov 22, 2021 (Age 82)
Saratoga Springs, NY- John Joseph Collins was born June 19, 1939 and passed away on November 22, 2021, with the family he loved entirely – at his side. Born in Brooklyn, NY to the late Marion and Dan Collins, he was an avid explorer of New York, a Brooklyn Prep Graduate, long term friend and the apple of his Grandmother, Bessie Griffin’s eye. John graduated from Holy Cross in 1961 and began a United States Navy career that covered the globe.
John met Maureen Fleming at Breezy Point, and commenced a partnership and marriage that spanned almost 6 decades. In Maureen, he found a fellow adventurer, a constant companion and a source of fun. Together they created a family and a life full with a sense of home amid the travel - in the gypsy life of the Navy and in the ordinary time simplicity of weekend trips to 25th Street Beachfront, in the MG TD, with cooler, kids, kites and chairs, or listening to the Metropolitan Opera to see if Carmen met the same fate this time, as occurred the last time. “Nunc Est Bidendium Et Pada En Terra Pulsundo” was the wine label he created, and a philosophy he utilized as a keel for living. He did love to laugh.
John retired from the Navy as a full Commander, then worked with General Dynamics where he also pursued an MBA, learned Russian for SALT talks, and provided mentorship and support to a wide range of peers. When he and Maureen decided to move back to NY to be closer to family and GD - Electric Boat was the solution. Moving from Del Mar, California to Saratoga Springs, NY brought John and Maureen into closer proximity to family. Here he created his own company, Griffin Collins, on retiring from GD a second time. When asked about a third career, he often teased Maureen, saying she made clear that she had married him for better or worse, but not for lunch!
Survivors include John’s wife Maureen and their two daughters: Marybeth and Deirdre.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Thursday, December 2 at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to St. Clements R.C. School, 231 Lave Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or to your favorite charity.
Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (58-584-5373).
Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com
Read MoreJohn was one of my bosses at GD Convair in San Diego. He was smart and helpful in the work atmosphere. I enjoyed his company as a friend. He sailed with me often. We enjoyed lunches at San Diego Yacht Club, Padres games too. John was 3 months younger than I. Sail on my friend. Rest in peace. Jim
Jim Gruenwald
May 07, 2022 | Work
First met John when he was my next door neighbor at Alumni and got to know that John had an opinion on whatever topic was raised. Loved his outspokenness and like Vince Fury, well remember John and the Holy Cross "marching band". My condolences to Maureen and family.
Marty O'Connor, classmate, Holy Cross '61'
December 09, 2021
If my memory is correct, John served as the leader of the Impressive, but diminutive, Holy Cross marching band (I surely wasn´t a band member) at all football games during those great years.
Vince Furey, H.C., Class of 1961
December 08, 2021 | School
My condolences and prayers for John and family, from a Holy Cross '61 classmate
Tom Hughson, S.J.
December 08, 2021 | School
John was my favorite babysitter during summers at Stephens Court. John was very calm after I had washed his convertible sports car with Spic-n-Span, taking off the finish, he knew that was Bessie’s way to clean everything. Just after their honeymoon, John and Maureen invited me to Newport, and he got tickets to the Newport Folk Festival, one of the classic years. “You are as welcome as the flowers in spring, Elizabeth” was always his invitation to visit. His death leaves a gap as wide...
Cousin “little Elizabeth” Ward
December 03, 2021 | Ann Arbor, MI
Maureen - I am so saddened by John's passing. John is one friend who will live forever in my heart. My Navy boss, my mentor and my friend for now close to 40 years. I know how much he loved you, Deirdre and Marybeth. May your memories bring you comfort during this time. Much more to say that I'll put in a letter to you. Peggy and I send our love to you, Dave
Dave Happ
December 01, 2021 | San Dieg, CA | Friend
Maureen, So sorry to hear of John's passing. He certainly was your constant friend and companion. Keep happy memories chose. I pray that God will keep you safe.
Jean Kohout
December 01, 2021 | TITUSVILLE, FL | Coworker
Maureen, sad to hear about John. What a long and beautiful union you shared. I hope when you reflect upon all those wonderful memories of your life together, it will help to comfort you in your grief. And yes, I recall his hearty laugh which brought a twinkle to his eyes.
Blessings to you and your family.
Mary Faustini
December 01, 2021 | Saratoga Springs, NY | Coworker
Thank you for your service and dedication to our country. Rest In Peace.
D
December 01, 2021
