Melvin Dale Collins

Melvin Dale Collins

Gave Generously -

Melvin Dale Collins, age 86, of Mechanicsburg, and formerly of Butler, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, June 9, 2019.  Melvin was born on Sunday, January 29, 1933 in Butler to the late Elmer Eugene Collins and Sarah Ann (Hervey) Collins. In addition to his parents, Melvin is preceded in death by his three brothers: Elmer Collins, Ralph Collins and Richard Collins; and his beloved dachshund companion, Snoopy.

Melvin’s survivors include his beloved wife of 54 years, Joy Elvira (Simon) Collins; his three children: Janine Lyn Phillips and her husband, Gordon, of Mechanicsburg, Kevin Michael Collins and his wife, Erin Ryan, of North East Poulsbo, WA, David Richard Collins and his wife, Darcy, of Butler; his seven grandchildren: Steven, Lauren, G. Andrew, Tanya, David Jr., Rachael, Davina; his seven great-grandchildren: Marcus, Mica, Tyler, Jaden, Nora, Ethan, Lyla; and several nieces and nephews.

Melvin proudly served in both the United States Navy and National Guard.  He retired from ARMCO Steel in Butler, after many years of service working as a foreman in the melt shop.  Melvin also worked as a special deputy with the Butler County Sheriff Department until his retirement in 1989.  He was a member of Saint Andrews United Presbyterian Church in Butler.  Melvin was a member of the American Legion Post 117 and East Butler City Hunting & Fishing Club.  He enjoyed salt-water fishing in Florida and shooting on the range.  Melvin was always watching out for the neighbors and often seen carrying in their groceries or snow plowing their sidewalks.  Nobody ever left “Poppy’s” home hungry.  He was always known to say, “It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.”  He always strived to make things special for his grandchildren and always brought Dairy Queen ice-cream cakes when he visited.  Melvin was a loving husband, father and “Poppy” to his grandchildren.

All are welcome to join Melvin’s family at his viewing on Saturday, June 15, 2019, from 3:00 p.m. until time of service at 4:00 p.m. and a committal service with military honors to be presented by the Cumberland County Honor Guard to follow, all at Buhrig Funeral Home and Crematory, 37 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Celebrant George A. Spangler officiating.  Melvin’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at Vissagio’s Restaurant, 6990 Wertzville Road, Enola, PA 17025, immediately following the service.  Burial in Rose Hill Cemetery in Butler will be private and at the convenience of the family.

The family sends their most heartfelt thanks to everyone at Carolyn’s House and the Burick Center for Health and Wellness, all of whom so lovingly cared for Melvin during his illness.

Contributions in celebration of Melvin’s life can be made to Carolyn’s House – Hospice of Central PA (HCP) Development Department, 1320 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17110.

Melvin’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home and Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Melvin’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, and sign his official guest book at Buhrig.com.