Westbrook,   The embers in the campfire have slowly faded. Fred is on his last hike, you see. He's now at the bend of the trail where he will join his life's partner, his wife of 67 years, Geneva, who always set the example on how to be a true "neighbor to mankind." Orphaned young, Fred spent his youth living and working at the Libby farm in Windham. He considered his endurance, in later trials of life, pointed to lessons learned from that time, discipline and dedication. Aged 16, Fred enlisted in the Marine Corps and fought on Iwo Jima. He was always ready to give up himself when the need was present and further served as a drill instructor during the Korean War. Fred shared many thoughts with Iwo Jima survivors and members of the American legion post #148 Windham. After his service, sharing life with his wife Geneva and their children in those growing years was top priority to Fred. He thought of them as diamonds in the rough that would become more valuable as they grew older. Fred kept hope he'd find members of his lost family and, at 68 years old, he was reunited with them, the Greniers. Fred was a proud member of the Boy Scouts for 77 years and the Free Masons for over 50 years. He enjoyed writing and had many articles published. Most of his thoughts on patriotism and the two wars in which he served were written in poetry. Fred wishes to extend his grateful thanks for the dedicated care his wife and he received over the many years. Fred often expressed that his "faith" was his guide and protector throughout his life. Frederick E. Collins, 91, passed away peacefully, July 9, 2017, at his home in Portland. He leaves his children: Stephen, Gary, David, Elizabeth, John, and Martha; their spouses; and many descendants that made his life worthwhile. A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11 AM Monday, July 17, at Woodlawn Cemetery, Westbrook. Online condolences may be expressed at blaisandhayfuneralhome.com.