Albert A Collins

Albert A. Collins "Bob aka Al", 84, of Plattsburgh, passed away, Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at the UVM Health Network CVPH Medical Center. He was born in Riverview, NY on June 25, 1930, the son of the late George and Annabelle (Corrow) Collins. Al served as a Gunnery Sgt. In the United States Marine Corps, B Company 1st battalion 5th Marine Brigade. He was awarded two Purple Heart medals for being wounded in action during the Korean War. He was also awarded the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Navy Unit Commendation, the Presidential Unit Citation, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation, and was presented with the Bronze Star for military action above and beyond the call of duty. Al was a man of many talents, Al held various jobs throughout his full life. He owned and operated West End Tavern, and co-owned and operated Frank's Coffee Catering. Al spent his post military career as a Corrections Officer at Dannemora Correctional facility, retiring in 1974. Al spent many early mornings fishing for lake trout, and he also enjoyed repairing and selling old cars. Al was an avid poker player, "31" was his favorite. In his later years he spent weekends with his wife at the slot machines at the casino. Al was a lifetime member of the V.F.W. post 1619, and the Disabled American Veterans. Al is predeceased by his first wife, Elaine Collins, his son, Patrick A. Collins, and his siblings. Al is survived by his second wife, Lucille Collins, daughter and son in law, Patti and Lonnie Fredette, daughter and son in law Tami and Frank Schaefer, grandchildren, Bambi Allen, Jessica Schaefer, T.J. Collins-Fredette, and Lily Allen, Step Children, Kim and Bill Myers, Michael and Dawn Filion, and Sharon and Joseph Cartier, step grandchildren, Lindsey and Casey Myers, Courtney Rock , Connor Filion, and Ryan Cartier. Calling hours will be held on Friday February 20, 2015, from 4:00 to 7:30 pm at the Brown Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 20, 2015 at 7:30 pm at Brown Funeral Home Chapel in Plattsburgh. Burial will be in the parish cemetery in late April. Donations in Al's memory may be made to the Disabled American Veterans. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, 29 Broad St. Plattsburgh, NY 12901 (518) 561-3980. Online condolences and memorial candles may be offered at www.brownfuneralhomeinc.com.