Leroy Nelson Collins

Leroy Nelson Collins, 96, of Bellingham, Washington passed away quietly on September 7, 2021. He can now join his late beloved wife of 60 years, Jean Pasierb Collins, of whom he said: “It was the love of a lifetime.” Leroy was a native of Roxana, Delaware and the son of the late Eli Collins Sr. and Agnes McCabe Collins. He was preceded in death by three brothers John, Eli Junior, and Donald Collins and a sister Wanda Collins Conley. He is survived by a son: Michael Collins and wife Carolyn of Hendersonville, NC; a daughter: Carol Wight and husband Steve Wight of Ferndale, Washington; four grandchildren: Lauren Collins Carstensen, Jessica Collins, Lucas Wight, and Eric Wight; and a great-grandson Matthew Carstensen. He has one remaining brother: Lewis Collins of Seaford, Delaware and a sister-in-law Janice Collins of Clarksville, Delaware, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Leroy was a Marine Engineer. He held a Chief Engineer’s License and was licensed in steam, mechanical, and electrical engineering. He spent his career working for Atlantic Refining Company/ Atlantic-Richfield (ARCO) / BP. After spending years at sea on oil tankers, he spent the last decades of his career as the Port Engineer at the Cherry Point Refinery in Ferndale, WA. once the Alaskan Pipeline opened. There he was in charge of all the tankers’ mechanical, repair, logistical, and personnel issues when the ship arrived at the refinery from Alaska. A true company man, he was famous for his dedication, problem solving, sharp decision making, and sharp tongue. He often said that some of best and favorite years were spent at sea. Leroy joined the US Navy at the age of 16, altering his birth certificate to be of age, during World War II. He served on an LCT (Landing Craft Tank) in the initial invasion wave on D-Day, lowering the ramp for the tanks (which immediately sunk) and the troops aboard. It was an experience that he seldom talked about but often gave him nightmares even to this year. He spent the remainder of the war on both the European and Pacific war fronts in naval combat. He fought Golden Gloves in the Navy. Before moving to Bellingham in 1973, Leroy and Jean had previously lived in Ocean View, DE; Fairhope, AL; and Yeadon, PA. Leroy’s key interests in life were his wife Jean, his children, his siblings, storytelling, and his work. He was a Master Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite Masonic Lodge, and a Shriner. Leroy was a member of the First Congregation Church of Bellingham. Leroy was a born storyteller and could enthrall a listener with his stories about the sea, ships, crew members, family, and his Delaware upbringing for hours. The family will conduct a private memorial service after his cremation by Moles Farewell Tributes.Rest In peace now, Leroy. You are loved and will be missed by all.

Leroy Nelson Collins

July 25, 1925 - September 7, 2021