William Collins

Cobleskill- William "Bill" I. Collins, 78, of State Route 10 died Saturday, February 8, 2014 at his residence with his loving family at his side.

Born January 29, 1936 in Conesville, he was the son of Raymond and Pearl (Hand) Collins.

Bill was a graduate of Canajoharie Central School and was drafted into the United States Army, serving from 1955 until receiving an honorable discharge in 1957.

He was a member of the Carpenters Union and was co-owner of Collins Concrete Construction where he worked for many years.

Bill was an avid golfer, fisherman, hunter and poker player. For many years, he worked the chains at the sidelines of the Cobleskill Central School football games. His strongest passion was watching his children and grandchildren, as family meant the world to him.

Along with his parents, Bill was predeceased by his siblings: Leon Collins, Raymond Collins, Frances Shafer, Elton Collins, Sheldon Collins, Kathleen Andrews, Philip Collins, and Ancel Collins.

Survivors include his wife: Jean (Bouck) Collins, whom he married August 22, 1959; three daughters: April (Randy) Johnson of Fort Plain, Tina (Rick) O'Dell of Johnstown, and Beth (Brian) Whitman of Fort Plain; two sons: Raymond (Denise O'Neil) Collins of Gardiner, and Michael (Carrie) Collins of Cobleskill; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; numerous step grandchildren and step great-grandchildren; his sister: Wanda Stickler of Port Richey, FL.

A period of visitation will be held from 5 to 8 PM on Tuesday, February 11, 2014 at Mereness-Putnam Funeral Home, 171 Elm St., Cobleskill. A private graveside service will be held at Lawyersville Cemetery in the spring.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Fund, Capital NY Region, 1 Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110.