Robert E. Collins, 92, of Anderson, passed away peacefully on Feb. 8, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. Robert was born on Sept. 22, 1931, in Anderson, the son of Lail and Rosa (Grant) Collins.

He was married to the love of his life, Margaret "Jane" Collins for 70 years. Robert graduated from Anderson High School in 1950, and attended IUPUI for his college studies. Robert was in the United States Army and served our country with great pride, as he served 11 years active and in the reserves.

He was a faithful member of the Cross Roads Global Methodist Church. He worked for the city of Anderson, and held various titles in the electrical field. Robert was a member of the Masonic Fellowship Lodge #681, he was a member of the Madison County Shrine Club, where he also served as a past president, and patient transfer for the Shrine Hospital. He was also a member of the Scottish Rite, Eastern Star, past Bethel Guardian for Job's Daughters, past president of Indiana Grape Grower's Association, and spent 40 years as the world's best Santa Claus.

Bob always had a joke and a story for the ready and he never met a stranger. He always had a special place in his heart for the care and love of children. He was especially proud of his military service, and never missed an opportunity to thank a veteran for their service. He loved exploring and sharing his collections.

Robert will be dearly missed by his wife, Jane; children, Karen (Steve) Veneskey, Sara (Dan) Lane, Nancy (Bob) Straley, and Jeffrey Collins; grandchildren, Jessica (Troy) Bruns-Pierce, Jenny (Willie) Ray, Sara (Caleb) Garrett, Courtney (Jason) Houghton, Keegan (Danielle) Collins, Daniel Lane, Mackenzie (Brandon) Walter, Caleb Collins, Mekai Collins, and Lorelei Collins; great-grandchildren, Spencer, Lucas, Ella, Bruce, Braden, Phillip, Ava, Cameron, Rhylan, and Rhyder.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Robert Joseph Collins; three brothers; and two sisters.

Visitation will be from noon to 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, at Brown-Butz-Diedring Funeral Service, 515 E. 53rd St., Anderson. Masonic service will take place at 1:45 p.m. at the funeral home. The funeral ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. at the funeral home.

Brown-Butz-Diedring Funeral Home has been entrusted with care of Robert E. Collins.