Collins, Joseph T.

Joseph “Joe” Collins, was the second youngest of eight children. At 17 years old he followed his brothers’ military tradition and enlisted in the Air Force. He served in Korea. In February of 1960, Joe was set up on a blind date – it was then when he met Sue Brasell, and they quickly fell in love. They were married on September 3 of that same year, beginning their 63 wonderful years of marriage.

They settled in Memphis, TN where they had their three children. In 1968, the family followed Joe’s employment to St. Louis, MO. Joe had many jobs throughout his life however, he finished his career as Maintenance Supervisor of the Anheuser Busch-Bevo Plant after 18 years in the role.

Throughout his entire life, Joe had an inquisitive mind. His hobbies were born out of a desire to know how things worked, and he was determined to improve them if possible. Working on cars, Ham radios, and computers provided him this challenge. After retirement, firearms, clocks, watches, metal machining, and much, much more found their way into his ever-growing interests.

Along with his tinkering, Joe loved to travel. Sue was the perfect partner for his gallivanting nature. They crossed the country—heading east and west from St. Louis—many times on their Honda Gold Wing motorcycle. Joe and Sue loved the excitement his purchase of a bass fishing boat brought to their lives, and countless other road trips were made in their van. They were always keen on an adventure, and were excited to share it with their nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren (who all lovingly referred to him as PaPaw) as they got older.

Joe leaves behind a spirit of contagious curiosity and adventure. His most enduring legacy will be his deep love for his family, whom he love “like biscuits love gravy.”

Saturday, January 6, 2024.  Beloved husband of Barbara “Sue” Collins (nee: Brasell).  Dear father of Lynn (the late Jerry) Hoffman, Brent (Trish) Collins and Karyn (Robert) Moeller.  Dear grandfather of Lindsey, Amanda, Justin, Emily, Alexandra, Elizabeth, Adam, Julia and Joseph.  Dear great grandfather of Blake, Aiden and Pierce.  Dear brother of Mary Pretti.  Our dear brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend, whom he loved.

SERVICES:  Private burial services were held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, contributions to the American Heart Association or to the charity of your choice appreciated.