Herman L. Collins

COLLINS, HERMAN LEE – age 83 of Knoxville, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2013, with his family at his side. He was a graduate of Young High School Class of 52 and a member of the Masonic Powell Lodge # 582 for 53 years. He worked for Sunshine Crackers and Pet Dairy, before opening his own business, West Haven Auto Parts. The parts store was an extension of his main hobby in life, dirt track racing. He began racing in 1948 and retired from the sport in 1979. Every weekend he could be found at the local tracks racing and after retirement helping someone else. His passion for the sport showed in his willingness to help others excel in the sport. He was inducted in the Tennessee Racing Hall of Fame at Atomic Speedway. He was also featured on the Heartland Series when they ran a feature on the sport. Preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Manes Collins; daughters, Linda Collins Poore and Teresa Collins Long; friend, Ellen Johnson; parents, Paul and Ina Collins; sister, Helen Collins. Survived by sons, Rick Collins, Greg Collins (Kelly);son-in-law, Steve Long; grandchildren, Mitch Poore (Jenny), Michelle Poore and Jason Collins (Holly); great-grandchildren, Kayla Poore and Eli Collins; sister, Doris Collins Smith and several nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends Wednesday from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Weavers with a chapel service to follow at 8:00 pm. Family and friends will meet 10:45 am Thursday at Highland Memorial Cemetery for an 11:00 am interment. Condolences are welcome and you may sign Herman’s guestbook at www.weaverfuneralservices.com Arrangements by Weaver Funeral Home.