AUBURN – Arthur E. Collins, 74, of 87 University St., Auburn, passed away Monday, Nov. 17, at the Hospice House with his family at his side.

He was born in Lewiston, April 1, 1934, a son of Charles and Germaine (Lapointe) Collins. He was educated in local schools and remained a lifelong resident of this community. He was a veteran of the military having served his country in the Marine Corps as an artilleryman during the Korean War until his honorable discharge.

Upon returning from the service, he went to work at Knapp Shoe for some years and then pursued the education and an apprenticeship to be come an electrician. He then spent many years working as an electrician and was a proud member of IBEW, as his work took him to many different places throughout North America for several years.

He attended Holy Family Church and was a member of the American Legion and the VFW. Among his favorite enjoyments were playing golf, cards and spending time during the summers with his family at Popham Beach. He was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather who will be sadly missed.

He leaves his wife, Clarissa (Ricky) Collins of Auburn, whom he married on July 26, 2003; his children of Yolande Collins, Tom Collins of St. Louis, Mo., Steven Collins of Lisbon, Dawna Poulin and husband, Don, of Greene and her children, Robert Bussiere and wife, Cathy, of Monmouth, Doreen Gooldrup and husband, Howard, of Auburn, Tina Dan and husband, Anthony, of Auburn and Sarah Bussiere and companion, Larry Nadeau, of Turner; 16 grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; a brother, Charles Collins of Lewiston; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by two sisters, Sally Gervais and Jeanette Bailey; a brother, Maurice Collins; and his parents.