John E. Collins

John E. Collins, 92 of New Palestine, formerly of Indianapolis, Indiana passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, October 6, 2024 surrounded by his beloved family.

John was born on June 14, 1932 in Indianapolis, Indiana, a son of James E. and Gladys (Larrison) Collins.

He married Betty Dooley on January 5, 1952 at St. Catherine Catholic Church on Shelby Street on the South Side of Indianapolis, Indiana. John is survived by his wife of 72 years: Betty Collins of New Palestine, Indiana.

He is preceded in death by his parents and one son: David Collins who preceded him in death in April of 2016. He is also preceded in death by his brother: Vearl Collins and his sister: Norma Hiday.

John is survived by his three children: Peggy (husband Marty Pitts) Collins of Lawrence, Indiana, John Collins II of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Nancy (husband Roger) Trueblood of Tarpon Springs, Florida.

John is survived by his grandchildren: Jason (wife Kim) Denny, Tracey (husband Chris Pickey) Denny, Jeremy Trueblood, Angela (husband John) Moon, Debbie (husband Doug) Korby.

He is preceded in death by one grandson Chaz Pitts in 2014.

His great grandchildren: Collin Denny, Madelyn Denny, Brendan Ploughe, Cara Plough, Avery Trueblood, Mia Trueblood, Jane Pickey, Owen Pickey, Gavin Holloman, Tyler Pitts, and Ava Pitts.

Many nieces, nephews, other family members and relatives also survive. 

Cremation Rites will be accorded. A private family graveside service will be held at Washington Park East Cemetery.

John grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. He graduated Manuel High School, class of 1951. After high school he worked at Fairmount Glass. He served his country in the United States Army from 1953-1954.

Throughout John’s professional career, he worked as a machine repairman for Ford Motor Company, retiring in 1991. John enjoyed many years of retirement.

In his younger years he enjoyed running and taking part in many different marathons. He was an avid bike rider and golfer as well. He enjoyed watching all sports. 

He was a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, and uncle who will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations in John’s memory be left to a charity of the donor’s choice.