Ira H. Collins

Ira H. "Buddy" Collins, 90, of Floyds Knobs, Indiana passed away on November 26, 2013, at the VA Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky. A proud World War II veteran of the U. S. Navy SeaBees, Ira was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 1693 in New Albany and was a 4th Degree with the Knights of Columbus – Bishop Spalding Council #2621. He retired from the K&I Railroad Company after 41 years. He leaves a legacy of faith, family, integrity, generosity, and love of life to all.

Ira was born on December 4, 1922 in Lothair, Kentucky, to the late Ira and Bertha (Abston) Collins. He was preceded in death by his sons, John and Steve Collins; brother, Billy Collins, and sisters, Nell Smith and Louise Smith.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary D. "Cookie" (Cook) Collins; children, Ira "Mickey" Collins (Karen), Connie Collins, Madonna Gammel (Allen), Michelle Spooner (Guy), and Ted Collins (Elsa); sister, Betty Jo Keadle; 15 grandchildren; and 17 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 2 to 7 PM on Friday, November 29, 2013 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Navilleton (7500 Navilleton Road, Floyds Knobs, IN 47119). His Funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM on Saturday at the church with burial and military honors to follow at the church cemetery. Newcomer Funeral Home (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany) is in charge of the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Support-in-Loss Ministry of St. Mary's Navilleton Church.