Dennis Herschel Collins

Dennis Herschel Collins, 69, passed away suddenly at his residence in Gloversville, NY on January 2nd, 2026. He was born December 13th, 1956 to Elliott Collins and Alice Von Der Born Collins of Palatine Bridge, NY. He was raised in Palatine Bridge and graduated from Canajoharie Central School in 1975 and shortly thereafter enlisted in the US Air Force after obtaining some credits from Fulton Montgomery Community College.

Dennis is remembered by those closest to him as a generous and kind man with a wonderful sense of humor. After retirement from the Air Force he worked for the United States Postal Service. He shared with his friends and family his love of music, playing the guitar, and writing lyrics. He had played in many local bands from the time he was a teenager and was known as a very talented musician. Dennis also was a devout Christian who attended many churches over the years and was involved in playing worship music. He passed his love of music down to his three children who will treasure the memories they have of him playing his favorite songs for them.

Dennis was predeceased by his partner of over twenty years Patricia Filkins who he shared many wonderful years with. He is also predeceased by both his parents Elliott and Alice Von Der Born Collins.

He is survived by his three children – James Collins of Burlington, VT, Mary Ellen Collins of Frankfort, NY, and Melissa Collins of Buffalo, NY. As well as three grandchildren–Kara, Leo, and Anna Collins. He is also survived by his sister Rosemary Collins Horning of Palatine Bridge, NY, his first wife and mother of his children Rose Perkins Collins, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dennis will be laid to rest in the Ames Cemetery in Ames, NY. The date has not been set yet, but the family will hold a celebration of life at a future date.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory please visit www.ottmanfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the care of the Ottman Funeral Home, Cherry Valley, NY with cremation taking place at The Leatherstocking Crematory, Cherry Valley.