John M. Collins

John M. Collins, age 84, passed away in the Philip Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, Rhode Island on Sunday, December 4, 2016. Born in Boston, Massachusetts on August 9, 1932, he was the son of the late James and Helen (Burkhardt) Collins. He was raised in Charlestown, graduating from Charlestown High School with the Class of 1949. After graduation, John enlisted in the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged on November 5, 1953, after earning the rank of Airman.

In June of 1954, John married his loving wife, Dorothy D. Creamer, and four years later they settled in Sharon, Massachusetts to raise their four children. John took a position with the Foxboro Company as a machinist, where he worked for many years until his retirement in 1997.

John was a proud Air Force Veteran, and as such, he was a strong supporter of other veterans and Veterans Holiday Celebrations in the Town of Sharon. His social calendar was always filled, as he enjoyed connecting with his friends in Sharon. He had a passion for music, listening to various artists from the 40s and 50s on a regular basis. As a devoted father, John spent countless hours coaching his sons' sports teams and as a loving grandfather, he truly treasured the time that he spent with his grandchildren.

John spent the last two years at Brookdale Assisted Living in Attleboro. He was an active member of the Brookdale Community, always initiating various committees. He will be forever remembered for his wonderful sense of humor.

Beloved husband of the late Dorothy D. (Creamer) Collins.
Loving father of John M. "Jack" Collins, Jr. and his wife Barbara of North Attleboro, Alan J. Collins and his wife Linda of Norton, Craig S. Collins of Texas, and the late Jody M. Collins.
Cherished grandfather of Rachel, John, Ryan, Lisa, Christine, Kerri, and Michael and great grandfather of many.
Brother of William Collins and his wife Barbara of Billerica and the late James Collins.
Devoted uncle of Lori Forensi and Lisa Collins and great uncle of Paul Foster.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend John's Life Celebration on Thursday, December 8, 2016 from 4-8 PM and Friday, December 9, 2016 from 9-9:30 AM in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 59 Cottage Street, Sharon on Friday, December 9, 2016 at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow in Rock Ridge Cemetery in Sharon. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: The American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.