CMSgt Gene R. Collins, USAF (retired)

Gene R. Collins, age 72, born January 29, 1938, the 13th of 14 children, in Grundy, Va., to John Burton Collins and Cora Mae, nee Stiltner, (Collins), Hart, passed away Sunday, October 10, 2010 at his home in O'Fallon, Ill.

Chief Collins' long and distinguished military career began when he enlisted in the Army in 1955. He then transferred to the Air Force in 1958 and worked in Communications as an Electronics Program Manager and Operations Supervisor. Among his many decorations, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, and Vietnam Service Medal. Upon his Air Force retirement in 1981, he transitioned into work as a civil servant in a similar job capacity. His most cherished work began about 7 years ago when he assumed the volunteer leadership and managerial position at Scott Air Force Base's Airman's Attic. It was here that his devotion to selfless sacrifice became most evident. Chief Collins was recently honored in a ceremony at Scott AFB, as the Airman's Attic was renamed in his honor, recognizing his efforts. Chief Collins led by example, with integrity and moral character. His love of God, family and country has been the cornerstone of his life.

Throughout his military career, he attended colleges at various installations, ultimately receiving his MBA from Pepperdine University in 1977. Chief Collins was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of O'Fallon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Tammy in infancy, and 10 brothers and sisters.

Chief Collins is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Dorothy M., nee Snyder, Collins, of O'Fallon; his daughters, Jeannie G. VanderKruik of Belleville, Ill. and Terry L. (Gary) Weidemann of Rolla, Mo.; and his two grandchildren Gary Weidemann, Jr., and Stacey Weidemann. He is also survived by his brothers Johnny Collins and George "Buster" Collins, his sister Sue "Suda" Stiltner and his sister-in-law Mary Rouse.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to The CMSgt Gene R. Collins, USAF (retired) Airman's Attic (checks payable to Friends of Military Families- Airman's Attic) 375 FSS/FSFR, 404 W. Martin Street, Scott AFB, IL 62225-5000 or BJC Hospice, #1 Professional Dr., Suite 180, Alton, IL 62002 or to First Baptist Church of O'Fallon, 1111 E. Highway 50, O'Fallon, IL 62269.

Visitation: Friends may call from 9:00 – 11:00 am, Friday, October 15, 2010 at First Baptist Church of O'Fallon, 1111 East US Highway 50.

Funeral: A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be at 11:00 am, Friday, October 15, 2010 at the church, with Rev. Dr. Doug Munton and Associate Pastor Skip Leininger officiating.

Burial of cremated remains, with full military honors, will follow at 1:00 pm at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Mo.

A luncheon will be served at the church following the graveside service.