Richard was born August 12, 1942 in Chicago, IL to Lucille and Arnold “Curly” Collins. He grew up and lived in various homes in Adams and Marquette counties. Richard “Dick” Collins graduated from Adams-Friendship High School in 1960. He married Karen Pflughoeft in 1962 and had one daughter, Wendy in 1966. He was in a 28-year relationship with Kathleen Gray.
Dick was once heavily involved in the snowmobile community in Adams County. He enjoyed camping, snowmobiling, hunting, and fishing. He loved racing (in the early days); “real” country music, bar hopping, and old cars. He loved getting together with family and friends and hosted many pig roasts at his bar The Sundown Saloon.
He worked for Deppe Enterprises in Baraboo, WI for roughly 30 years; then opened The Sundown Saloon in Westfield, WI. After retiring he divided his retirement years six months in Wisconsin and six months in Florida.
Dick was preceded in death by his father, Arnold “Curly” Collins; mother, Lucille Jett Collins; and his brother, Robert “Bob” Collins.
Survivors:
Kathleen Gray (Oxford/Westfield, WI and Port Charlotte, FL)
Her children: James, Kelly, Sandra, and Marsha; grandkids; and great-grandkids
Wendy Collins (Mark McFry) (Stockbridge, GA)
Children: Nicole and Samantha; and grandkids
Joan Collins (Reedsburg, WI) and Family
Linda Collins (Baraboo, WI) and Family
Karen Collins (Adams, WI) and Family
A memorial service celebrating Dick’s life will be in February in Wisconsin.
In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund in the name of Richard H. Collins will be established with A-F Educational Foundation.
Dear Kathy & Family — So sorry to hear of Dick’s death! We have many fond memories visiting with the two of you, along with Bill & Marybeth at Brooks Pub! I also had Dick for a 7th grade teacher at Friendship Grade School! Sending sincere condolences and will be praying for your comfort.
Kathleen & Families,
Dick was a friend & classmate of A-F Class of 1960. He will be dearly missed. His many years of health issues are now at an end and he is at peace. You will all hold his memories close to your hearts. Blessings to all.
Prayers of comfort for his family and friends. He lives on, in your memories and the hearts of many. Rest in peace Dick.
So sorry to hear about Dick. You are in our thoughts & prayers through these difficult day. He will be missed by many.
Sorry for your loss, dick was a great man, friend,
Dick was a wonderful man. Thinking of you Kathy and family at this time.
He will be missed.
Sorry for your loss. He enjoyed life. Horse racing with the guys. He will be missed.
Sorry for your loss! He will be missed!
Sending our sincere sympathy to all of Dick’s family. So many memories have gone through our minds the past few days. We all shared some great times in the “good old days”. Treasure your memories, they’ll get you through some of the tough days. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love you💕 RIP dear friend.
Kathy, Wendy and Joan, sorry for your loss.
Prayers and hugs to Dick’s family. Dick and I grew up as neighborhood kids and went to school all thru grade school and high school. Hold your memories close.
Always sad to loose a loved one. May peace be with you. Thoughts and prayers are sent your way. Dick will be missed by family and friends especially the A-F Class of 1960. Blessings.
Sorry to here of Dick,s passing he was a good friend miss him teasing me Honky
Dick’s Family – So sorry for your loss – keeping you in my Prayers.
Sending sympathies from Oregon. Fond memories of classmate Dick….of your family visit with us in Az…and more….so long ago…