Harley Joseph Collins

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want." Harley Joseph Collins, Born Oct. 20, 1926, in Las Vegas, N.M., was called home by his Heavenly Father on Wendesday, Nov. 12, 2008. Harley was a very loving husband, father, grandfather, papasito, nino and friend. Harley was preceded in death by Liz, his loving wife of 55 years, who he has missed dearly since her passing in 2004. He was preceded in death by his parents; and by his brother, Frank Collins. He is survived by his children, Richard and wife, Sandy, Robert, Rosanne and husband, Alvin Gonzales, Ruth and husband Chris Medina, Randy and Wife Lisa, Roger and wife Robin; 11 grandchildren, Jovina and husband Dwayne Dixon, Jared Collins, Christopher Collins, Korrina Collins, Daniel and wife, Tina, Anthony Medina, Valerie Collins, Mandi and husband, Jacob Crane, Jeremy Collins and fianc�?©, Jennifer, and Carson and Cassie Collins. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Sierrah, Gentrie, Lainey and Joshua; brothers Eddie and wife, Doie, Robert and wife, Lucia; by his special sisters, Edwina, Dolores and Eleanor; goddaughter, Jeri Jurado; numerous nephews and nieces and many dear friends. Dad was quite the athlete, especially in basketball where he competed in two state championships at a time when there were no classes and teams played every other team in the state. Dad enjoyed traveling with the team because, as he stated, "I knew I would be feed well." Because of life's circumstances, Dad had to mature fast and start work at an early age. After school, Dad worked managing a local billiards hall where he learned to play pool proficiently and became quite the pool shark, eventually purchasing his very own pool hall. After graduating head of his class, it was off to Arkansas on an Air Force Training Program, from there it was back to Las Vegas where he attended Highlands University. The most memorable day of Dad's life was when his beautiful bride said, "I do." The happiest times of Dad's life were on the dance floor with his wife, vacationing, playing cards, golfing, playing pool, going to the casino, reading and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Dad had a servant's heart from giving of his time and donating to various charities. Dad felt privileged and humbled to serve as a Eucharistic Minister where he was able to take the Holy Eucharist to the sick and share Christ in the Mass with his Christian Family. He was a pilar of support for St. Joseph's Church and from a young age through his adult life he remained very strong in his faith. He served as a leader on the parish council, Crusillo retreats and was a lector at St. Josephs' where he enjoyed reading scripture. He also served on the school board for the Aztec School District for several years and was a huge fan of all Aztec Tiger sports. Dad worked for the State Highway Department for 30 years. Realizing that he had retired at such a young age and still wanting to serve he went back as consultant, a project coordinator, and an inspector for the state and the city of Aztec for many years. Although Dad will be dearly missed, we know that his example of faith, love, devotion and quiet strength will live on in all his family and friends that have been touched by his life. We are also comforted knowing that Dad is in Heaven where he will spend eternity dancing with Mom. Pallbearers are Christopher Collins, Jared Collins, Daniel Collins, Anthony Medina, Jeremy Collins and Carson Collins. Honorary pallbearers are Alvin Gonzales, Chris Medina, Sam Abeyta, Pat Smith, Tim Martinez and Lawrence Guillen. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the St Joseph Catholic Church Poor Fund. Funeral services for Harley have been entrusted to Cope Memorial Chapel of Aztec 405 S. Main Ave. (505) 334-9332