Fredrick Nelson Collins

In Loving Memory of Fredrick Nelson Collins

March 22, 1946 – September 15, 2024

Fredrick Nelson Collins, beloved father, grandfather, husband, and son, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024, at the age of 78.  Born on March 22, 1946, Fred lived a life of love, hard work, and unwavering dedication to his family.  Fred was predeceased by sisters, Dolores Lather(Jerry) Carol Moreland, Adele Panella (Joseph) and his brothers Harold Collins (Janice), Robert Collins, Edwin Collins (Rita).  He is also survived by his sisters, Deena Collins and Mary Sue Capasso (Thomas) and brothers, John Collins (Dawn), Bruce Collins (Kathy), and Joseph Collins (Trina).  Fred also has many nieces and nephews.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Fred was the devoted husband of JoAnn Collins, with whom he shared over 40 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a home filled with love, warmth, and family. Fred is survived by his son, Scott Collins, and his grandson, Braiden Collins, both of whom brought him great joy and pride. He was a loving father to his late son, Alfie Collins, and a cherished stepfather to Deana Ryan and Tom Graziano, with whom he shared a special bond. He also leaves behind his step-grandchildren, Brandon and Jason Ryan, whom he adored.

Fred was the beloved son of Adele and Harold Collins and is now reunited with them and his son, Alfie, in eternal peace. He was also part of a large, loving family with many brothers and sisters, with whom he shared countless fond memories.

A hard-working man, Fred was the proud owner of his own insulation business for over 30 years. His dedication to his craft was matched only by his devotion to his family. Family always came first for Fred, and he was the kind of man who would go to great lengths to ensure the happiness and well-being of those he loved. Whether it was helping his parents, supporting his wife, or lending a hand to his children and grandchildren, Fred was always there with a willing heart and strong hands.

Fred was also a proud veteran of the United States Army, where he served from August 1965 to August 1968 as a TT Operator, achieving the rank of E-4. He completed his basic training at Ft. Gordon, Georgia, and was stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War. His military service reflected the same dedication and sense of duty that guided him throughout his life.

Some of Scott’s fondest memories are of family gatherings at Fred's parents' house, where holidays, birthdays, and family gatherings at Grandma and Grandpas house were filled with laughter, joy, and togetherness. Whether it was a family gathering at Thacher Park, a trip to Saratoga Racetrack, many trips to casinos with his wife and friends or simply celebrating life's many moments, Fred's presence made those times brighter.

In recent years, Fred faced the challenges of COPD and other medical conditions with remarkable courage and resilience. Despite these struggles, he never wavered in his commitment to his family. Fred spent his final years living with his son, Scott, and was able to witness Scott’s new home and growing family with Jessica, his future stepdaughter, and Connor, his future step grandson. This new chapter in Scott’s life filled Fred with immense pride and brought him great comfort in his final days.

Fred’s legacy is one of unwavering love, strength, and generosity. He was the foundation of his family, a man who showed what it meant to live with integrity and care for others. Scott is proud to be his son and will carry the love and lessons from his father in his heart forever.

Fred will be laid to rest at Memory Gardens in Colonie, New York, alongside his parents, Harold and Adele Collins, his son Alfie, and other beloved family members. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

"I love you, Dad, and you will always be in my heart." - Scott Collins