LIBERTY – Howard O. Collins Jr., 83, also known as “Whiskey,” passed away Feb. 10, 2009, at a Bangor hospital. He was born May 5, 1925, in Appleton, son of Annie (Esancy) and Howard O. Collins Sr. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a long distance truck driver for his brother, Richard Edgecomb; and worked as an equipment operator for Forest Fredericks, Pittsfield. He also worked for Harry Crooker of Brunswick. After his retirement from Crooker, he enjoyed buying and selling everything from stoves to heavy equipment even until the very end. He had a close relationship with some of the local state troopers who he referred to as “the boys,” and they will be serving as his pallbearers. Howard was predeceased by his parents, two sisters, two brothers; and a special brother-in-law, Bill. Howard is survived by his wife of 64 years, Carolyn Collins of Liberty; his children, Randall Collins and wife, Patricia, of Waterford, Conn., Anita Pease and husband, Alvin, of South Montville, and Corene Richards and husband, Carroll, of Vassalboro; his grandchildren, Joanne Pease, John Richards, Wanda Pease, Jeffrey Collins, Jennifer Roggi and Jason Richards; 11 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Eddie Turner and Dave St. Clair. Family and friends are invited to call 5-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at Crabiel-Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast. Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, at Liberty Baptist Church with the Rev. Stephen Daniels officiating. Those who wish may make donations in Howard’s memory to Liberty Volunteer Ambulance or Fire Department, 86 West Main St., Liberty, ME 04949.
HOWARD O. COLLINS JR.
