Ronald “Ron” E. Collins, 81, Marion, passed away on Sunday, July 30, 2023, at his residence in Marion. He was born in Tuscola, Illinois, on July 10, 1942, to Carl and Esther Ruth Collins.
Following high school at 18 years of age, Ron enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served his country as a mechanic and was honorably discharged. Following his military service, Ron married Lottie Norena Baylor and worked at Dana Corp. until his retirement.
Ron loved country music, especially listening to old, classic country music and singing whenever he could. In the late ’80s, Ron and his family traveled down to Nashville, Tennessee, where he recorded “My Special Lady”, “High Rollin’ Woman”, She’s Layin’ Down The Lovin'”, and “Poor Ole Love”. As Ron and Lottie’s kids grew older, Ron joined bands and performed on stages, often going by the stage name of “Ronny C. Collins”. Other hobbies Ron enjoyed included mushroom (morel) hunting, spending time with his family, and watching old western movies. He also enjoyed seeing any old classic cars at car shows.
Survivors include his wife, Lottie Norena Collins of Marion; daughter, Dawn Collins of Ruskin, Florida; and grandsons, Caleb Mabry and Bryson Mabry, both of Ruskin, Florida.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Ronald Eric “Rick” Collins.
The family will receive visitors from 9:30 am to 11:30 am on Monday, August 7, 2023, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Ron’s life will begin at 11:30 am. Burial will take place at Marion National Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
To send flowers to the family of Ronald “Ron”, please visit our floral store.