Ron was born in Portland, Oregon to Parents Edward and Mary Collins. He graduated from Jefferson High school, served in the National Guard, and was later activated to the U.S. Army for 2 more years. In 1957, he married Barbara Ann Stassens. They were together for 61 years until her death in 2018. They lived in Portland, Oregon and, in their retirement years, spent winters in Arizona. Ron, with his brother Edward, ran Collins and Wilmes Cigar Company. When the business was sold, he went on to work with his son, Robert, at RC Display Vans until retirement.
He is survived by his sons, Ronald W. Jr. (Julie), Robert E. (Lisa), William P. (Georgette), and Edward J. (Shawna), and his sister-in-law, Carol Stassens. He was Blessed with 12 Grandchildren and 7 Great Grandchildren.
The Collins family would like to extend our sincerest appreciation to Laurel Parc Assisted Living Center, Providence Hospice Services, and St. Pius X Pastoral Care for keeping Ron comfortable in his final days.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org or the Oregon Humane Society at www.oregonhumane.org, Ron’s favorite charities.
A memorial service for Ron will be held at 11am on Saturday April 15th at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 1280 NW Saltzman RD, Portland, OR 97229.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.finleysunsethills.com for the Collins family.
