Daniel Collins

Daniel George Collins, son of George Melvin Collins and Margretta Ann Walker Collins, was born on July 28, 1943 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. "Dan" as he was affectionately called along with his brother, Ronnie grew up in the small town of Fruitland, MD. In 1960, he enlisted in the US Army, where he met and later married, Sharron Kay Dale of Colorado Springs, Colorado. To this union they were blessed with one daughter, Angela. During his 20 years of service, he traveled throughout the United States and overseas to Germany and Thailand. Dan also completed one combat tour in the Republic of Vietnam from September 1967-September 1968, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for Bravery. In 1980, he bid farewell to his uniform and boots. Dan was very proud of his service to his country, which he expressed by raising the American flag daily at his home and always sporting a retired Vietnam veteran or retired army hat everywhere he went. He later went to work for Colorado National Bank, Shelter America and finally the Social Security Administration until his retirement in May of 2013. In 1982, Dan was introduced by a friend to Shirley Ann Hunn. On April 18, 1983, the two wed, joining two steps sons, Eugene and Jack Hunn to the family, along with Dan's daughter Angela. Dan and Shirley loved their motor home and traveled throughout the US. Their many adventures include, Mount Rushmore, the Grand Canyon, California Redwoods, annual trips to Maryland and the 2008 family vacation to Disneyworld. Dan loved his family and spent as much time cherishing them and spoiling his grandchildren as he could. Although he couldn't do it often; Dan enjoyed fishing. Each fishing trip with the grandchildren was sure to include a threat of "this is the last time," however, they'd always be present on the next expedition. Ever the supporter, Dan enthusiastically attended his grandsons' football and basketball games. He was proud to boast of the time he was kicked off the field for exchanging a few choice words with the referee. For 20 years, he and Shirley would host a New Year's Day feast for family and friends; and without fail, would bring about complaints and fuss from Dan about how much work it was. But for 20 years, they ensured plenty of food and memory making for everyone. Dan loved being around people and having a good time. The one thing you could always count on with Dan, he was a straight shooter; he wouldn't pull any punches. His daughter and step sons often found themselves upset with Dan due to his no nonsense approach. Although they didn't always like what he had to say, they would ultimately admit, he was right. Dan's honesty was just one of the many qualities those that knew him admired the most. Dan was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and son, who loved his family and was truly loved in return. He is preceded in death by his father, George Melvin Collins. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Daniel George Collins departed this life on July 10, 2014, Denver, Colorado. Those left to cherish his memory and mourn him include his loving and devoted wife of thirty one years, Shirley A. Collins; one daughter, Angela M. (Marcus) Murphy; two step sons, Eugene L. Hunn and Jack E. Hunn all of Aurora; his mother, Margretta Ann Collins, Baltimore, MD; one brother, Ronald B. (Louise) Collins, Sr., Baltimore, MD; one sister, Norma L. (Horace) Gilchrist, Burkesville, AL; his grandchildren, Shamecia N. Collins, Charlotte, NC, Jerrod B. Collins, Aurora, Marquel A. Murphy, Mekhi C. Murphy all of Aurora and Natifa Hunn, Denver; his great granddaughter, Aniya E. Simpson, Charlotte, NC and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Home: Pipkin Braswell Funerals and Cremations - 6601 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO
Visitation: 7/16/2014 at 4:00 PM - Pipkin Braswell Chapel of Peace - 6601 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO
Service: 7/17/2014 at 11:00 AM - Pipkin Braswell Chapel of Peace - 3370 Ivy Street, Denver, CO
Cemetery: 7/17/2014 - Fort Logan National Cemetery - 3698 S Sheridan Blvd, Denver, CO