Bert Elmer Collins

Bert Elmer Collins of Florence Colorado passed away peacefully on August 3, 2023, with his wife, youngest son, and daughter in-law by his side. He was born May 16th, 1932, to Elmer L. Collins and Annie (Dimock) Collins in Campo, Colorado. Bert grew up in and went to school in Rocky Ford, Colorado. At the age of 20 Bert joined the U.S. Navy and traveled all over the world spending most of his time in Guam. Bert served in the U.S Navy during the Vietnam and the Korean wars. In 1956 Bert was honorably discharged from the Navy and met his wife Elsie (Finney) Collins and they proceeded to be married in 1961. Bert and Elsie had two children, Melvin, and Russell.

During his life span he worked for CF&I Steel which is now known as EVRAZ Steel in Pueblo Colorado as a crane operator. Bert retired from CF&I Steel in the year 1984. After he retired from CF&I Steel, he became self-employed with his wife in owning Beaver Park Self-storage in Penrose Colorado.

He enjoyed many hobbies with his sons and grandchildren such as hunting, hiking, and fishing. He also enjoyed going on vacations all over the world and the U.S. with his children and grandchildren. Some of his favorite vacations were to Branson Missouri, Yellowstone National Park, Mount Rushmore National Monument, and the Oregon coast.

Bert was proceeded in death by his parents, 2 brothers and 3 sisters as well as several nieces and nephews. He is survived by his wife Elsie (Finney) Collins, and his Sons Melvin (Lisa) Collins, and Russell (Della) Collins. His grandchildren Llorynette (Thomas) Miller, Daniel (Colleen) Mead, Porsche (Jeff) Jarman, Cody Collins, Dustin Collins, Amanda Collins, Amber Collins and several nieces and nephews. He was also survived by his great- grandchildren which consisted of 3 girls and 5 boys.

Services will be held Friday August 11th, 2023, at 10am at the Steeple Event Center in Canon City. Arrangements are under the care of Harwood Funeral and Crematory.

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