1918 – 2003

SOUTH PARIS – James J. Collins, 85, died early Friday morning, Nov. 21, at the Maine Veterans’ Home where he had been a resident for the past two years.

He was born in Auburn May 25, 1918, a son of Fred E. and Jane E. (Miller) Collins. He was raised in Auburn and educated in Auburn and Mechanic Falls schools. On June 9, 1941, he married the former Louise Shaw who died March 3, 1999.

Mr. Collins was a military veteran of World War II having served in the 78th Infantry Division of the Army over in Germany. While in the service, he was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart medals.

He was employed for many years as a park ranger for the Maine State Parks and Recreation Department attaining rank of Manager 3 prior to his retirement in 1984.

In his free time he enjoyed the outdoors including fishing, golf and traveling but his priority was always his family. For several years he and Louise also enjoyed spending their winters in Florida.

He leaves a daughter, Ellen Cleaves and husband Harold of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.; a son, Jim Collins and wife Beverly of Oquossoc; six grandchildren, Jo Ellen Millett, Kimberly Jaques, Karen Collins, Rebecca Steward, Heather Schonelley, and Michael Collins; four great-grandchildren, Katherine Schonelley, Allison Steward, Jonathan Jaques and Eva Schonelley.

He was predeceased by a grandson, Edward Cleaves; a great-granddaughter, Jackie Millett; a brother, John Collins; and a sister, Eleanor Harmon.

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