Mr. Clarence A. “Sam” Collins, 91, of Galesburg, Illinois passed away at 1:00 am Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at his home.
Sam was born December 27, 1930, in LaHarpe, Illinois the son of Harry and Mary (Melvin) Collins. He married Joan Christianson in Galesburg on November 2, 1951. She preceded him in death on December 25, 2021.
Sam is survived by his son, Kevin (Pamela) Collins of Galesburg; his two daughters, Jeanine Beghtol of East Galesburg and Carlene (the late Ron) Hagan of Galesburg; three grandchildren, Tiffanny (Jeremy) Powell, Sara (Tyler) Nelson, and Shana Daniels and six great grandchildren, Courtney, Sam, Kaylynn, Abbigail, Talia, and Arianna. He is preceded in death by his parents his brother, Gary Collins; his sister, Frances Strom and granddaughter, Gina Beghtol.
Sam graduated from Abingdon High School in 1949. He served in the US Army from 1951-1953 as Tank Commander during the Korean War and was a 70-year member of the Abingdon American Legion Post #381.
Sam worked as a supervisor with the Abingdon Pottery for over 44 years, retiring in 1994. He was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church. Sam enjoyed the outdoors, rather it be hunting or fishing. He had many adventures fishing in Canada with his father-in-law and many friends. Sam also loved traveling with his wife, Joan and their best friends, Bob and Betty Smith.
Funeral Services are scheduled for 11:00 am Monday, September 26, 2022, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel with Deacon Michael Crummer officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am Monday at the chapel. Burial will in Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens with Military Honors. Memorials may be made to the Faith United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
