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Robert Hurst "Bob" Collins Sr.
Robert Hurst "Bob" Collins Sr.
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Robert Collins Obituary
entered into rest on January 25, 2015 after a long courageous fight with prostate cancer and then bone cancer.
Bob is survived by his wife Phyllis Ann Roby Taylor Collins of almost 31 years. He is also survived by his sons Robert Hurst Collins Jr. and Steven Wayne Collins; daughter Vicky Jeanine Collins Duncan, children with his first wife Blanche Collins who preceded him in death in 1979. To follow along in their legacy are eight grown grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.
Bob and Phyllis met in 1980 and in that union he received two more children, son Jerry R. Taylor "JR" and daughter Rebecca "Becky" Ann Taylor. The marriage between Bob and Phyllis resulted in having three teenagers at home at one time, they got along great! The two older sons were already married and out on their own, however all of them became a blended family. In 2009 a total blessing came into their life with Becky delivering one very special little granddaughter Alisha Ann Taylor (Pepa's Little Girl). She proudly proclaims that she takes care of Pepa, always waiting on him, but most of all embracing and loving him unconditionally.
Bob was a veteran who served in the US Army for eight years. His highlight of those years was being a paratrooper! When he got out of the Army he went to work at International Harvester retiring after 20 years when they closed the plant in Louisville. After that Bob got a job at Fort Knox KY Out-Processing Military Personnel and retired from there in 2003 after 20 years of service.
Bob was a dedicated UK Basketball Fan for many years! During the past 20 years Bob and Phyllis have thoroughly enjoyed retirement together driving around the country in the car, throughout the US, traveling to lots of states and enjoying attending Engelbert Humperdinck concerts. They have both been very actively involved in Engelbert's Louisville KY Fan Club and have been blessed to know him personally and he and Bob became "pals." Thanks to Engelbert for all the wonderful friends they have been blessed to meet from all around the world!
Arrangements are being handled by Owen Funeral Home, 5317 Dixie Hwy, Pleasure Ridge Park, KY (special thanks to Bill Longest). At Bob's request there will be no visitation or viewing. Bob wants to be remembered as he was in life, with a camera in his hand, taking pictures of everyone. As he would say "Wait, Take Two!" Online condolences: owenfuneralhome.com
Request that donations and expressions of sympathy be made to Hosparus of Louisville.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Phyllis Collins
January 20, 2025
Robert Collins - You have now been gone 10 years and I still miss you every day - You were an Angel here on earth and without a doubt you are an exceptional Angel there in Heaven!
Faith Heidel
January 20, 2021
Bob-cat was a guy I never really met, but know of thru all the Engelbert Fan Clubs. He was loved and is loved dearly, and I know missed tremendously. He is at rest now and in God's loving hands. We will all meet again some day, until then, rest in peace Bob-cat.
Mary Ann Sage
January 20, 2020
I still miss seeing you at the Engelbert concerts, You are probably taking pictures of all the beautiful things in heaven.
July 9, 2015
Bob you were one of the sweetest man I knew. Glad you aren't suffering anymore. You will never be forgotten. Love ya, Mary Ann S
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Wendy Sontag
February 20, 2015
Bob their will be nobody who had a smile like you that lit up the whole room. i will miss seeing at the show but really glad i met you. We will keep a eye on Phyllis for you. she know she can pick up the phone anytime. As Enge says we will meet again, don't know where or when. God Bless.
February 7, 2015
Bob, Thank you for being my friend and the moments we shared at the Engelbert shows.You will truly be missed and I know that Phillis will carry on the tradition. Rest in Peace My Brother in Arms. Tim Ison
This is one of my most favorite quotes one I always share with family & friends :)
Norma Covolesky
February 3, 2015
Dear Phyllis,I am so sorry I just heard of Bob's passing.I can only repeat what beautiful memories everyone else has shared about Bob with you..He was a very special friend and Len & I will miss him. I can go back in time to our first time meeting when Bob took my photo of me on stage with Enge,one of my most treasured memories.Through all these years when we went to concerts we would,always look for both of you and there you both were smiling, laughing,hugging,among the many Enge friends you have met along your travels,what a testament to both of you.We will always remember Bob with much love and friendship. God Bless Norma & Len
Gerry Zawalich
February 3, 2015
Phyllis, I am happy I had a chance to meet you and Bob last Sept. in St. Pete..you were both so pleasant and the smiles from both of you made me feel like I knew you for years...Take care we all have great memories of Bob...Hope to see you again....
Susan Mayfield
February 2, 2015
Bob,
There was always a gentle radiance about you. You kind caring ways meant so much to all of us.
You will be missed.
Toni Cerniglia
February 2, 2015
I just heard this sad news. God blessed us all with Bob. He and Phyllis did everything together it seems. They just enjoyed life. I will always remember Bob's kindness and laughter. We spent a lot of time visiting at Engelbert shows, and he will be missed by many "on the road". My sincerest, and deepest sympathies to Phyllis and the rest of the Collins family. May he Rest in Peace. God Bless you all.
February 1, 2015
Phyllis, Bob will truly be missed. He was a wonderful person and dear friend. I'm thinking of you always. God Bless.
Debbie Hurt
Chaplain Rita
February 1, 2015
Please accept our condolences from the Hosparus In Patient Care Center.
Tony Savage
January 31, 2015
I am very saddened by the news of Bob's death. He and Phyllis were part of the Humperdinck family for many, many years, and I know that it will not be the same without him in the front row at the concerts. He was one of the nicest and funniest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, and he will always have a special place in my heart. To Phyllis and the Collins family, you have my heart felt prayers and blessings during this horrible time. I love you.
January 31, 2015
Phyllis, both Ed and I were shocked and saddened on Bob's passing. We both have enjoyed so many good times with him. He will be deeply missed by both of us. We will never forget his smiling face. Rest in peace, our friend. We love you both. Ed & Jan Larkin
Diane & Jack Toth
January 30, 2015
Jack & I send deepest sympathy on Bob's passing. He will be truly missed. Though we did not know Bob for long we will never forget that warm and friendly smile and how he always made us feel welcome. May God impart courage and comfort into your heart and know you are always in our thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace our friend.
For the Rest of my Life, when I swing, I will be swinging with you Pepa
Alisha Taylor
January 30, 2015
Hi Bob :-)
Becky Taylor
January 30, 2015
My Dear Bobby C
Becky Taylor
January 30, 2015
Maureen & Michel
January 30, 2015
Dear Phyllis, We are so sorry for your lost, Bob will be missed by many of us. He was such a great man with a beautiful soul. May he rest in peace and may god give you &
your family the strenght to look forward, as he would have wanted you all to move on with your lives. Remember, you will never walk alone, Bob will always be by your side.
Michelle Heffernan
January 30, 2015
Bob, we feel greatful to have known you. Rest in peace. Love the Heffernan Family!
Cathy Sullivan
January 30, 2015
Rest in peace Bob. I cherish all the photos you took of our parties over the years. You were a brave and super guy. You will be missed by all who knew you
Linda Fairbairn
January 30, 2015
RIP. You will be greatly missed, but we will all meet again, someday. We know you have received your perfect healing, and will never know pain again. My love and prayers go to Phyllis, who is a dear, sweet lady, and I am proud to have known you both.
Maryann Nestor
January 30, 2015
Bob, indeed, was such a sweet, warm, loving man. I was so happy to have had the chance to meet him along the Engelbert trail. He will be missed by so many, I for one will remember him fondly. Rest In Peace dear Bob.
Mary Ann & Frank D'Elia
January 30, 2015
Bob was a very special kind gentlemen...He always had a smile on his face and greeted everyone with warmth...He will be missed but never forgotten...
Lourdes Cisterna
January 30, 2015
May you rest in peace Bob. I will never forget you were the one that took my first picture with Engelbert. May God have you in his glory.
Mauricio Herrera
January 30, 2015
My dear Bob, we've never met but I truly and deeply feel blessed of meeting your lovely wife Phyllis who's been an amazing supporter of my work with Engelbert! Now that you're enjoying HEAVEN, away from all pains and worries my wish for you is to be HAPPY AND JOYFULL among the Angels and Gob almighty! My sincere best wishes to you in your life beyond this earth!
Jackie Cyr
January 29, 2015
RIP Bob, my prayers are with you and your family. You will be missed.
Vicky Collins Duncan
January 29, 2015
I could not have asked for a better daddy. I'm at peace in my heart knowing that you are pain free now and happy again. I love and respect you so much. I love you dad. Rest in peace. You will be forever missed.
Roseann & Rosalie DiCicco
January 29, 2015
One of the greatest things that came about during our travels through the years seeing Engelbert were the many people we met and the friendships that were made. We loved Bob from the first meeting. He was a beautiful man with a beautiful heart and beautiful smile. Mom and I will miss him very much. We know that he is at peace now. Love you.
JoAnn Carlisto
January 29, 2015
I feel so fortunate to have met Bob at the many Engelbert shows that we attended together. One of the first things that we would say was "oh, there's Bob and Phyllis" I will miss seeing his smiling face but I know that he will be there in spirit at every show. God has one more angel in heaven. God Bless you Bob. -
Germaine Hines
January 29, 2015
It was 4 years ago, almost to the day, that I met Bob and Phyllis. Little did I know that a special friendship was just beginning. Bob touched so many lives in a way that no one else could. He will never be forgotten for his smile, warmth and sincerity. Thanks for sharing him with us all these years.
Joan & Rob O'Brien
January 29, 2015
My mom, "Lovell" and Bob worked together at Fort Knox for many years and that is how our family got to know and love Bob and Phyllis. He took pictures at all of our weddings and special events and walked my mom to her final resting place......he was a dear close friend and is an angel in heaven now. I am also sure my mother met him at the gates of heaven to welcome him with open arms.....he was a dear friend to her (and my father). My family will miss Bob a lot and we will keep in touch with Phyllis ( Bob would have wanted that. Love to you Phyllis from the Eskridge Children and Rob :)
juanita kirk
January 29, 2015
I will always remember Bobs happy smile and laugh, I always looked forward to the hugs. Phyllis and bob meeting me at the truck to take me to my room, or out to eat. And to the store. I love you both, and will always remember Bob. You both were a big part of my life. Love you always
Trish & Tommy LaPaille
January 28, 2015
Phyllis- Bob was a great neighbor and friend. I always enjoyed that he would take time to take pictures of Alayna and give them to me and Tommy. We remember that Bob always had the best tan in the neighborhood from laying out in the back yard pool. Tommy said he had the second best manicured lawn, next to him. It was a pleasure to have been his neighbor- he will be missed! We are so very sorry for your loss.
Sharon LaPaille
January 28, 2015
To bob, my bud, although he's a u of K fan ... From his u of L neighbor, Sharon . I hope you are at peace. Say hello to Harry for me!
January 28, 2015
So sorry to learn of Bobby's passing away. We remember his smiles and laughter with much fondness. He was always a joy to be around and he thought the world of his family. Praying for you, the Hodges family
Christina Slayton
January 28, 2015
Phillis,so sorry to hear Bob had passed . He was such a great neighbor and sweet man .We will always remember him mowing the lawn and waving hi with a big smile on his face. We will miss him but know that he is pain free in heaven with no more worries. Love , Christina and Bonita Slayton
Belinda Hickman
January 27, 2015
Phyllis, I was so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. He was such a kind person and a good neighbor to my Mom.Whenever I saw him he always greeted me with a big smile and was always up for a minute or two of lively conversation.
My heartfelt prayers and sympathy go out to you and all the Collins family
With Deepest Regards
January 27, 2015
Diane and I are so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. We know what a courageous fight Bob fought. We praise GOD for his life and will continue to pray for Phyllis and the loving family he left behind. Our deepest sympathy. Love,Diane and Charlie
The Stinson Family
January 27, 2015
May he rest in peace.
With our Deepest Sympathy.
kathryn winters
January 27, 2015
god bless you phylis & all your family.so glad to have known you & bob.
Mike
January 27, 2015
Phyllis, I am so sorry for your lose. I know that the last days were very hard on the family, but Bob is at peace now and that is something that you should take comfort in.
Cindy Jameson
January 27, 2015
It has been an honor and privilege of knowing Bob, I had the opportunity to get to know him when he married into the family. Even though I have lived out of state for many years, I have many memories from the earlier years. Bob you will be missed and know that my prayers and love is with you.
Phyllis Collins
January 26, 2015
As I tell you Goodnight at the end of this day, please know I will be thinking of you, with LOVE, all the rest of the days and nights of my life.
Laurie Piccolo
January 26, 2015
Mom, myself and my fan club have been so very blessed to have BOB in our lives. Always great to see an Engelbert show, but fun to spend time with Bob.....we knew we were gonna have photos taken (always take 2) after the show. Bob was such a kind and gentle man.....Phyllis was so lucky to have found such a wonderful husband. We are so glad they were able to ENGEjoy retirement and all their travels. Concerts (and apple juice) will NEVER be the same. Rest painfree in heaven, my dear friend.
Jill
January 26, 2015
Will NEVER forget Bob's smile and willingness to chat, laugh, and take pics...He was surely one in a million and will certainly be right there with us at future shows!! R.I.P. Bob...Forever in our hearts! Thanks for the happy memories and friendship....Phyllis, sending love and prayers to you and your family.
Jerry Taylor
January 26, 2015
I. Have. Been. Blessed. Too. Have. You. In. My. Life. Will. Always. Think. Of. You. An. You. Made. Our. Family. Hearts so. Special
Lisa Flaherty
January 26, 2015
Phyllis, Bob was always a smiling face at Fort Knox. No matter what he was doing, he had that smile. When he retired he was truly missed. He could always be counted on to help anyone. I am so sorry for your loss.
theresa hundt
January 26, 2015
Dear Phyllis and family, I am so sorry for you loss. Bob's smile was a mile wide and contagious. How could we not smile when he was behind the camera. Keeping you all in my prayers as your lives go on without Bob. Theresa and Billy
Becky Taylor
January 26, 2015
This Candle is for you Bobby C. I miss you so very much. I can only imagaine how wonderful it is to be with Jesus. God Bless You
I WILL ALWAYS BE YOUR GIRL
Alisha Taylor
January 26, 2015
I LOVE YOU PEPA. I HOPE YOU REST WELL. I MISS YOU PEPA. PEPA GAVE ME EVERTHING I WANTED AND I THANK HIM. I LOVE YOU PEPA FROM ALISHA
Becky Taylor
January 26, 2015
Bobby C was the best Dad I could have ever asked for. He raised me like I was his very own blood Daughter. I Loved him more than I can ever say.One of my favorite sayings is "Love lives on", Bob will live on through me, I am who I am because of him and my Wonderful Mother. I will miss you Dearly. Rest in Peace
Lin Bolte
January 26, 2015
Dear Phyllis, may I offer my sincerest condolences to you and the entire Collins family. We have known you and Bob for so many years. He will truly be missed. Bob was one of the most lovable characters I have ever met. he was always happy and always smiling, and I will remember that most about him. May God Bless you, Phyllis, and give you strength. we know that Bob is at peace, and is one of the brightest lights in heaven. RIP, Bob. With all my love--
Cathy Buskirk
January 26, 2015
I can only imagine all those whose lives he has touched with his friendliness, kindness, and that big smile! I am thankful that I was able to meet Bob just 16 months ago, and experience all his Love, Joy,Enthusiasm and Appreciation for the world around him...it was contagious! Bob made the world a better place...and all were Blessed for knowing him. God's Blessings to you Phyllis and Family...you are all in our thoughts and Prayers.
January 26, 2015
I feel so fortunate to have met Bob at the many shows that we attended together. One of the first things that we would say was "oh, there's Bob and Phyllis" I will miss seeing his smiling face but I know that he will be there in spirit at every show. God has one more angel in heaven. God Bless you Bob.
Bob & Phylllis - in Happy Times at an Engelbert Humperdinck concert!
January 26, 2015
Elaine & Michael Andreottola
January 26, 2015
We are so blessed to have met you & Bob. Your big hearts and caring spirit will always be remembered. We will miss Bob and his wonderful smile & hugs, he was a special man. Know you are both in our hearts, thoughts & prayers.
We Love You
Dianne Opalewski
January 26, 2015
Dear Bob, I remember so many many happy fun filled times we've all had throughout the years, but mostly how pleasant, kind, friendly & very helpful you always were. The most important of all is the many fans & friends that have come together because of Engelbert & yes Bob you. You have always been there with camera in hand ready to take as many people in one picture that you could. Smiling all the while doing what you did best. Oh my goodness, the many awesome photos of EH I can not begin to count, and that you shared with all of us. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done for us. Rest in peace my friend. Love to you, Phyllis & the whole family.
June Moore
January 26, 2015
This candle is lite in memory of Bob as we will always remember the shinning moments we spent with you over the years. May he rest in peace.Love and sympathy to Phyllis and the family from June Moore and The Humperdinck-L-Ettes. God Bless
January 26, 2015
Phyllis - please know that I am always here for you. Bob was a special soul and I will always cherish the wonderful times we shared together over all these years. My wonderful Bob - we'll meet again!! (I couldn't let Bob down and not throw in an Enge reference). Love, Cyndi
Marilynn Sacker
January 26, 2015
Bob, there will always be a light in our hearts for you Peace be with you
January 26, 2015
Phyllis I am so sorry to hear about Bob. Your in our thoughts and prayers. Please take care of yourself and stay safe. Much love always, John and Wanda Little
PohLin Teh
January 26, 2015
Bob, You will live on in the hearts and minds,
Of the loving family you left behind.
Charissa Nicole
January 26, 2015
Bob will surely be missed. I can honestly say I've never met a more special couple in all my travels. Devoted fans not only to Eng, but always supportive and loving to the band. It was always a pleasure seeing them at shows, both during and especially after. Always smiling, always cheerful. I only wish I would have had the opportunity to get to know Bob more. He was a wonderful soul. Heaven has gained another angel...rest peacefully Bob!
Carol Bishop
January 26, 2015
Bob, you always were the guest star at Enge's shows. Your thoughtful and special photos will always be cherished, as will also, one very unexpected gift. Rest peacefully in God's loving arms...
Faith Heidel
January 26, 2015
Always a smile for everyone. No more pain, just pure love keeping you in our hearts forever. Love and sympathy to you Phyllis and to your family.
Linda Davis
January 26, 2015
It was a pleasure meeting Bob and Phyllis one year in Boston (Wilbur) and Lowell (Lowell Auditorium) with Carol and Sandy! I'm sad to hear of his passing but know that he is with God and without pain! Through pictures I've seen on FB I will remember what a great smile he always had! My prayers to the family!
Myrtle Beach Beach Cove Tiki Bar
Rosemary Carroll
January 26, 2015
Bob I can feel that smile...and know you are seeing us join together as your "harem" your EH ladies, and celebrating the Life you led now. Lots of happy memories, good times, and you will always be with us "on the road" God Bless you and keep you in his warm and tender arms, where you belong.
Sandy Pheils
January 26, 2015
Bob, I am so grateful to have known you for the past 6 years. You & Phyllis have became such good friends & we shared so many beautiful memories together over the years. Every time I take pictures I always think of you, 'take two'!!! R.I.P. my friend & thanks again for 'picking me up' in Orlando 6 years ago!! Love you, Dan & Sandy XXOO
January 26, 2015
It was always so nice to see Bob at the Engelbert concerts, such a nice, friendly and kind man, we will miss him so much.
Barb Borow
Kathy Haynes
January 26, 2015
You will always be remembered for all the joy and fun you brought to the "singles" group parties and listening to Freddie. Those times are sorely missed. May you have eternal peace and comfort in God's arms. Until we meet again ....
Marilynn Sacker
January 26, 2015
Dear Bob, remembering your smiling face at all the Engelbert shows. Thanks to him, he brought you and Phyllis and so many wonderful friends together. Bless your soul, R.I.P.
phillip porter
January 25, 2015
God bless you Bob, it was my extreme pleasure to have known you. Rest in peace now.
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