Bob Collins

Bob Collins, 89, of Faith, SD, passed away with family at his side on November 8, 2024 at the Hospice House in Rapid City, SD from a lengthy battle with cancer. Bob was born on March 15, 1935 to parents Leo and Irna (Gabriel) Collins, at their home south of Faith, with his grandmother, Ida Collins as midwife.

Bob went to grade school at Zeal through the 8th grade and started high school in Faith before having to quit to help with the sheep at home. Bob worked at Hiram Dutton Ranch on the Moreau River near Bixby. One weekend he went to a school dance at the Imogene Hall where he met Jennie Dutton, who became the love of his life. They were married August 14, 1954 at the Lutheran Church in Prairie City, SD. Following their marriage, Bob and Jennie moved to the Leo Collins Ranch south of Faith for 15 years where Gordon, Ross, Todd, Brad, and Lisa were born. Bob and Jennie bought the Christian’s Ranch in 1972 and continued to ranch, raising sheep and later cattle. Tracy was born while on the new Bob Collins ranch.

In 1975, Bob’s son, Ross was tragically killed in an auto accident, which broke his heart. Bob drove semi-truck for the Samuelson Ranches in the winters for many years. Haying in the summer was one thing Dad enjoyed most. He always got started early and sometimes worked all night to get it when it was just right. When he finally had good machinery, he was hard to keep up with. Dad did all of his own mechanic work, keeping everything greased and in good shape. In the slow times, he would hook up the scraper and build or rebuild dams and creek crossings.

Dad was an accomplished carpenter and electrician, building the house he lived in and many sheds and remodel jobs for himself and neighbors. Dad was always known for his slow way of talking, but from experience, I can tell you that you had to run to keep up with him.

In 2015, Bob lost his wife of 61 years, Jennie. Bob is survived by sons, Gordon (Kathy) Collins of Faith, SD, Todd (Nancy) Collins of Alkali, SD, Brad (Nikki) Collins of Bowman, ND, Tracy (Heidi) Collins of Prairie City, SD; one daughter, Lisa (George) Till of Dupree, SD; sister, Cleo DeKnikker and brother Jim Collins of Faith, SD; as well as 18 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Jeff Collins; son, Rodd Collins; granddaughter, Kendi Till; sister, Marie DeKnikker; and brothers in law, Albert DeKnikker and Art DeKnikker.

Blessed by the memory of Bob Collins, who will live in our hearts forever.

Funeral Service of Remembrance was held Monday, November 18, 2024 at the Faith Community Center in Faith, SD.  Rev. Harold Delbridge officiated followed by a time of fellowship and lunch, burial was held at the Bear Butte Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.