James R. Collins

James R. “Jimmy Dick” Collins, 79, of 582 Arch St., Meadville, passed away Tuesday, January 29, 2019.

He was born June 18, 1939 in Franklin, a son of Carl W. and Katherine Robinson Collins.  He married Mary Lee Metz October 6, 1958 and she survives.

Jim was a 1957 graduate of Franklin High School.  He proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1957 to 1961, attaining the rank of DM2.  He worked at Abex for 26 years and US Bronze for 11 years, retiring in 1999.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, canoeing, camping and being with family and friends.

Survivors include his loving wife Mary, five daughters, Tamara Vargas (Alex) of Alamogordo, NM, Maria Basile of Meadville, Tricia Corey (Dan) of Grove City, Mary Lou Proffitt (John) of Espyville, and Liz Gregor (John) of Meadville; ten grandchildren, Krystil Smith, Michael Stacho, Tasha Dukett, Whitney Proffitt, Miriah Proffitt, Sophia Proffitt, Louis Basile, Maggie Corey, Logan Gregor, and Leyton Gregor; eight great-grandchildren, Daniel Chivers, Stephen Kuti, Feibri Stacho, Kiara Stacho, Jonathan Smith, Raegan Dukett, Noah Dukett, and Victoria Basile; a sister, Kay Ditzenberger of Fredonia; several cousins; nieces; nephews; and two sisters-in-law, Ruth Culbertson (Ed) of Franklin and Barb Collins of Utica.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Don; a brother-in-law, Don Ditzenberger; and a step-grandson, Jordan Proffitt.

Visiting hours will be Saturday, February 2nd from 10-11 a.m. at Emmanuel Community Church, 30 Park Ave., Meadville.  The memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Timothy Solomon officiating and a meal and fellowship time to follow.  Military honors will be provided by Huidekoper VFW Post 2006.

Memorials may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 3415, Erie, PA 16508 or Hospice of Crawford County, 766 Liberty St., Meadville, PA 16335.

The arrangements have been entrusted to the ROBERT W. WAID FUNERAL HOME, 581 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE where memories and condolences may be shared at www.waidfuneralhome.net.