Ronald Collins

Ronald Collins, 79, of Napa, CA, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2022.

He was born in Maryville, MO, to Mildred and Ralph Collins. Ron graduated from Napa High School and UC Santa Barbara.

Ron is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Patrick Collins and Valerie Clemen; his grandchildren: Alana and Clark Collins; and his stepdaughter and her husband, Andrea and David Sullivan. He was predeceased by his parents and his wife, Karen Collins, to whom he was married for 40 years.

Ron spent over 30 years working at Napa and Vintage High Schools, where he was a beloved figure around campus. As a guidance counselor, he helped generations of students find their path through high school, college, and beyond. Even long after he retired, it was common to hear shouts of, "Hey, Mr. Collins!" wherever he went around town. Ron was also an avid football player, longtime coach, and occasional color commentator on local games. He was particularly proud to have played for the only undefeated, untied football team in Napa High history in 1959.

Ron was a U.S. Army veteran. He served in the Vietnam War in 1967-68.

Ron loved adventure. He hitchhiked from California to the World's Fair in New York in 1964. He was a stowaway, and later a crew member, on a cargo ship sailing from New Zealand to England. Ron spent much of his free time traveling and managed to visit 49 states, more than 40 countries, and six continents. He was funny, an expert storyteller, and a huge personality. Ron will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A memorial gathering will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. in the Tulocay Chapel, 411 Coombsville Road in Napa, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ronald Collins Memorial Scholarship Fund, Napa High School, 2475 Jefferson Street, Napa, CA 94558.

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