Kenneth "Bear" Collins

Kenneth “Bear” Franklin Collins, Sr., 92, of St. Claire, Missouri, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Meramec Nursing Home in Sullivan, Missouri. He was born on November 21, 1932, Troy, Missouri and was the son of Authur and Effie (Pery) Collins. Kenneth was united in marriage on February 4, 2000, in Farmington, Missouri. Kenneth attended high school and continued his education to become an iron worker. He worked as an iron worker for the Union Local #396 for over 50 years. Kenneth was very instrumental with several very large projects with the Union. He had a passion for taking care of his yard and gardening. Kenneth was an outdoor enthusiast and was always willing to help others. He looked forward to the sweet treats delivered by Audriana and Ainsley. Kenneth spent many hours with them, playing games and going on adventures. He was a loving man with a heart of gold. Kenneth is survived by his three sons and one daughter: Kenneth “Buddy” Collins, Jr., Steven Smithey, Steven Collins, and Dana Collins; step-sons: Jason, Thomas and Christopher; one daughters-in-law: Rena, Rhonda, Jessica, Katie and Lana; one sister-in-law, Nona Collins; several grandchildren, including: Audriana, Ainsley and John; several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and father: Authur and Effie Collins; one son, Marvin “Marty” Collins; brothers and sisters: Otis Collins (Helen), Evelyn Collins, Orville Collins (Alvena), Earl Collins (Helen), Darlene Hunter (Buck), Eleanor Wallace (Glen), Wanda Regot and Clifford Collins; nephew: Ricky Hunter and very dear friend, Bob Cross. Family and friends will be received from 12:00 am to 2:00 pm on Monday, February 24, 2025 at KEMPER-KEIM Family Funeral Chapel located at 351 Monroe Street Troy, MO 63379. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, February 24, 2025 at KEMPER-KEIM Family Funeral Chapel located at 351 Monroe Street Troy, MO 63379. Interment will be held at Wilson Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to The Family of Kenneth Franklin Collins, Sr., in care of Kemper-Keim Family Funeral Chapel P.O. Box 222 Troy, MO 63379. Arrangements are under the direction of Kemper-Keim Family Funeral Chapel; 351 Monroe Street Troy, MO 63379. Online condolences may be made at www.kemperkeimfamilyfuneralchapel.com Phone 636 528-8221

Kenneth "Bear" Collins

November 21, 1932 - February 10, 2025