Ralph E. Collins

Ralph E. Collins III was the first of five children born in Washington DC to Ralph and Marguerite (Micki) Collins. He graduated from Archbishop Carrol Catholic High School in 1957 and from University of Maryland Fire Protection Engineering School in 1964.  During these years, he was also a member of the Bladensburg Volunteer Fire Department.

Ralph’s fire protection engineering degree was instrumental during NASA's Apollo and Gemini space programs where he was a contractor for TWA. He worked at Kennedy Space Center from 1967 – 1971.  The family moved to Richmond VA where Ralph worked for Johnson & Higgins Insurance Co. doing fire prevention and safety management for their major corporate clients. In 1985, he moved to Needham MA to work for Firepro, Inc. as general manager and consultant. Soon, he was working for himself as R. E. Collins & Associates. He served as President of the Society of Fire Prevention Engineers and was a member of NFPA.  He received many prestigious accolades and awards and was bestowed "Lifetime Member" status in both professional organizations.

After he retired, Ralph moved to Lantana FL where he met Sally Ann Inmon, (nee Bergquist).   They were constant travel companions sharing a love and devotion for each other and their families.  He spent countless hours documenting his family tree back several generations and cataloging family photos into albums.

Ralph is survived by his adoring wife Sally, his seven children, their mother Joan,  four stepchildren, 15 grandchildren 9 great grandchildren, 4 brothers and sisters and their families, and many cousins. We will miss his beautiful smile, tender heart and humble leadership.  He spent his entire life fulfilling God's purpose for him, being a devoted and caring father.  We can find peace and joy in that his legacy is found in our love for one another and the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Be at rest with your Heavenly Father.