James Collins

Mt. Tremper-

     James Y. Collins, 89, of Mt. Tremper died Sunday February 5, 2023 at the Westchester Medical Center after a brief illness.  He was born April 15, 1933 in Gunnison, CO son of the late Michael and Bella Kulaski Collins.  Jim was a veteran of the United States Marine Corp having served from 1954-58.  He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal.  An area resident since the 1950's he had owned and operated Collin's Trucking for more than 70 years.  He was a hard worker, and always game for numerous adventures across the United States.  He had a broad skill set, would tackle anything, and often dodged unbelievable consequences.  He was patriarch of the family, and had a generous heart under a tough guy exterior.  He volunteered to haul supplies throughout the country during times of severe weather events.  He was known as a 'Back Road Warrior" and knew his way around without any electronics.  He enjoyed artic adventures with the guys on ski doo.  Years ago, he was a member of the Mt. Tremper Fire Department, and actually helped during the building construction.  Jim had been an active member of the St. Francis de Sales Parish. 

     Surviving are his son Jeffrey and wife Kathleen Collins of Phoenicia, daughters: Barbara and Lori Collins. Grandchildren: Dustin, Brittney, Nicole, and Kaitlin.  Five great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.  He was predeceased by his wife Emily in 2009.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 11 am at the St. Francis de Sales Church Main St. Phoenicia.  Spring burial in the St. Francis de Sales Cemetery Rt. 28 Allaben.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's/St. Francis Parish, with a memo: Donation to the Sodality of Our Lady of LaSalette.  Friends will be received at the E. B. Gormley Funeral Home on Saturday from 9am to 10:30am prior to Mass.  You may share a special memory, photo, or condolence with the family  on Jim's Tribute Wall at www.gormleyfuneralhome.com

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