Clyde Thomas Collins, age 75, died at his home in Alexandria on April 1, 1998. He was born February 1, 1923 in Belle River Township, the son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Clark) Collins. He lived and attended rural school until his family moved to Alexandria where he continued his education. Clyde then worked with his father in the home construction and house moving business. Clyde entered military service in 1942, serving with the U.S. Army until 1945. He was united in marriage with Mertyce Cole at Sisseton, South Dakota on July 14, 1946. They made their home on Hawthorne Street in Alexandria and then moved to a house on Spruce Street where they lived the remainder of their lives. They were the parents of four sons and two daughters. Clyde owned and operated the A & C Engine Service in Alexandria for 30 years. After selling the business in 1977 he continued working there for a humber of yers. He also owned a machine shop in Parkers Prairie for a time. Clyde enjoyed the out-of-doors, especially being in the woods. Spending time with his family and visiting friends were special times for him. He was a member of the VFW and attended the Episcopal Church. His Irish heritage was very important to him. Clyde was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mertyce in 1996, a son, Michael, and an infant brother. Surviving him are his children: Gary and wife Gretchen Collins of St. Louis Park; Donald Collins of Alexandria; Dennis Collins of Fergus Falls; Pat and husband David Owens of Osakis; Marie and husband Robert Baas of Alexandria; brother, Miles and wife Joyce Collins of Bloomington; two sisters: Phyllis Collins of Alexandria; Alice and husband Roger Nelson of Circle Pines; eight grandchildren; three great grandchildren. A funral service was held April 4, 1998 at the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria with Reverend Al Ludwig officiating. Serving as pallbearers were Tim collins, Mike Schmitz, Bill Hanson, Bill Bursch, Al Bakke, Merlin Peterson and Curtis Auran. Military honors were provided by VFW Post 936 at the interment service in Geneva Cemetery. Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home, Alexandria.
(Alexandria newspaper obit)