Funeral services for Richard W. Collins, age 62 of Faith, will be held at 2:00pm Thursday, June 14, at the Faith Community Center. Pastor Wayne Olson will officiate with burial in the Collins Family Cemetery south of Faith.

Serving as casketbearers are Gordon, Lawrence, James, Neil Collins, Deb Wicks, and Dan DeKnikker. All friends and family are considered honorary bearers.

RICHARD WILLIAM COLLINS was born July 20, 1944 in Pierre, SD to Ralph Edward and Olive Martha (Sabey) Collins. He attended Zeal Country School south of Faith and graduated from Faith High School in 1962. Richard attended Black Hills State University in Spearfish where he earned his teaching certificate. He taught fifth grade in Faith for nearly 30 years.

He owned and operated Dick's Drive In in Faith for several years. Richard was a bookkeeper over the years for several Faith businesses including Tower Stools and the Auto Center. He was instrumental in bringing new businesses and services into Faith including Arrow Transit, Meals on Wheels, Faith Senior Center, and Community Action Team. He spearheaded a fund drive for the Community Legion Hall and Faith Senior Center, and served on numerous other community boards.

In 1993 Richard adopted his son Joey who was the light of his life.

Richard passed away on Wednesday, June 6, at the IHS Hospital in Eagle Butte. Richard was well known for his big heart and would lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Surviving family members include his son, Joseph "Joey" Collins, Belle Fourche, SD; 1 sister, Sharon Romero, Guadalupita, NM; 1 sister-in-law, Tonnie Collins, Pierre, SD; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, Alfred Collins, 1 brother-in-law, Joe Romero.