February 2, 2012

DEXTER, N.Y.  —  Donald L. Collins, 88, of Bushkill, Pa., formerly of Dexter, died Wednesday, Jan. 25, at Pocono Medical Center in Stroudsburg, Pa.        

Born March 20, 1923, in Alexandria Bay, son of Carson C. and Frances Colin Collins, he attended Champlain College, Plattsburg, Manhattan College, Long Island, and Syracuse University, Syracuse.    

He entered the Marine Corp on Dec. 7, 1942. His service as a Radioman included the Pacific Theater and the occupation of China, serving in Okinawa, Saipan, and Tarawa from September 1945 to March 1946. He was honorably discharged on March 30, 1946.    

He married Florence E. Shannon on April 19, 1952, in Redwood, followed by a 53 year legacy of love and marriage. Florence passed away on March 2, 2010.    

Mr. Collins was a self-employed salesman in northern New York.

He was a former parishioner of St. Elizabeth Seton Church, Dexter.

Don and his wife volunteered their time and service for many years at the Mercy Health Center in Watertown.  

He was a classical pianist and his hobbies included crosswords and card games.     

Mr. Collins is survived by his six children, Vicki M. and Joseph Contino, Bushkill, Pa., Richard J. and Cathy Collins, Bridport, Vt., Donna M. and Monte Provencher, Bridport, Vt., Cheryl M. and Brian Davison, Blairsville, Ga., Jay J. and Debra Collins, Winterhaven, Fla., and Jon J. and Pamela Collins, Auburndale, Fla.; 21 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Besides his wife, Florence he was predeceased by his son, Dale J., his brother, David, and his sister, Patsy Eggleston.  

A spring graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery, Theresa, at a time and date to be announced. 

Arrangements are with Cummings Funeral Service, Inc., Watertown, NY. 

Donations may be made in his name to The Right to Life Organization.  

Information provided by Cummings Funeral Service and Newzjunky.com, Watertown