Obituary of RALPH - COLLINS

Ralph Collins of Monterey, 85, PSG-E7 (USA,Ret), passed away on April 3, 2019 surrounded by his family and friends. Ralph was born on April 9, 1933 at Indianapolis, Indiana to Dan and Nannie Collins. In 1951, he enlisted in the US Army. In his 20 year career, Ralph served tours of duty in Japan, Washington, Alaska, California, Germany and Southeast Asia. In addition to the Combat Infantryman’s Badge 2nd Award and the National Defense Service Medal, Ralph was awarded many decorations and medals including the Bronze Star.

Ralph was a brave and loyal soldier, as well as a loving husband and father. He married his lifelong wife of 64 years, Fukue Sakamoto in Tokyo, Japan in 1955. They made their home in Seaside upon Ralph’s retirement while he attended Monterey Peninsula College and Hartnell College and earned two separate AA degrees (Ornamental Horticulture and Real Estate). The family moved to a “house on the hill” in Monterey in 1976.

Ralph was a Realtor, Independent Contractor and Plumbing Contractor after his retirement from the Army. Through the years Ralph was active with the American Legion and the Carmel Valley Orchid Society. He was an avid fisherman who often spent time out fishing twice a day. When not out fishing, Ralph spent time gardening in his beautiful and lush garden. Music was one of his greatest joys. Everyday brought music.

He is survived by his daughters, Norma and Karen; his grandchildren, Michael, Mehrissa, John and Lorin; and his 8 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his grandson, Jack. Ralph was also dad and grandpa to many other extended family members and uncle to numerous nieces and nephews from the Collins clan originating in Indiana.

He will be missed by all who happened to come across his great smile and generous spirit.

Memorial Services will be held on Friday April 12 at Mission Mortuary in Monterey. Interment will be held on Friday April 26 at Mission Memorial Park, Seaside.