Robert F. Collins

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert "Bob" Franklin Collins, who passed away on Saturday, May 16th, 2026, at the age of 87, in his home at Morning Star Ridgegate in Lone Tree, Colorado. He was born on September 4, 1938, in Indianapolis to his parents, Dale Timothy and Mary June (Franklin) Collins. He married Sue Ellen (Butler) Collins on August 14, 1960, and the two spent nearly 66 beautiful years together. He lived in Indiana for most of his life, moving to Colorado in October of 2025.

From an early age, Bob loved science and biology. He graduated with a Bachelor's in Biology from Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana, in the Spring of 1960. While at college, he met his future wife, Sue. Bob chose to spread his love of science through his career as a high school teacher. Bob later completed a Master's in Education from Butler University in Indianapolis.

Bob and Sue were blessed with two children, Corinne and Miles. Bob was a family man and a dedicated father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was adored by his whole extended family and was seen as the patriarch of the family. Bob was later blessed with four grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Bob had a profound love for nature, dedicating countless hours to bird watching and nurturing the wildlife around his home with multiple bird feeders. His love for the great outdoors extended to fishing, where he spent many serene afternoons casting his line off the dock at Kivett Lake catching bluegill. Bob also found joy in caring for his small farm, where he raised a variety of animals including steers, chickens, goats, and sheep and crops, embodying the values of hard work and dedication.

Professionally, Bob devoted 36 years to the Indianapolis Public Schools, serving at Arsenal Technical High School and earning respect and admiration from colleagues and students alike. As a Past President of the Tech Retired Teachers Association, he continued to advocate for education and inspire those around him. His commitment to community was also reflected in his role as an Elder and Sunday School Superintendent at Camby Community Church from 1968 to 1972.

Bob found joy in life's simple pleasures, from spirited card games of euchre and poker to cheering on his favorite college sports teams, Indiana University and Butler University. He had an innate ability to find humor in everyday situations, sharing countless laughs and jokes that warmed the hearts of those around him.

A proud and devoted grandfather, "Grandpa Bob" instilled a love for fishing in his grandchildren, often found wearing their college and Army sweatshirts with pride. His teachings extended beyond fishing, as he imparted life's important lessons with a twinkle in his eye and a smile that could light up any room.

Bob is survived by his wife, Sue (Butler) Collins; his children, Corinne (Kent) McGrew of Frisco, CO and Miles (Crystal) Collins of Holiday, FL; his grandchildren, Hannah McGrew of Highlands Ranch, CO, Ethan (Kaylea) Collins of Indianapolis, IN, Olivia Collins of Dallas, TX, and Colin (Julia Tunze) McGrew of Grand Rapids, MI; his great-grandson, Jackson Collins of Indianapolis IN; his sisters, Jane Davison of Indianapolis, IN and Nancy Wisley of Indianapolis, IN; sister-in-law Kay Collins of Bedford, IN; as well as many nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, and beloved friends.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Mary (Franklin) Collins and his brother, Jim Collins.

Family and friends may show their love and support from 10:00 to 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 22nd at Jones Family Funeral and Cremation Service in Mooresville. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM following visitation at the funeral home.

To send a condolence to the family or to share a story about Bob, please visit: www.jonesfamilymortuary.com