Richard Collins Obituary
Richard Torbert “Rick” Collins
Age 65, formerly of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away on March 4, 2011, at his residence in Fort Myers, Florida.
Rick was born on March 4, 1946 in Wilmington, Delaware. He was the proud son of the late William Richard Collins and Barbara Torbert Collins, of Fort Myers, Florida.
Rick served in Vietnam from 1968-1969 and was awarded a Bronze Star. He is a 1971 graduate of University of Delaware and inducted into the University’s Wall of Fame for professional excellence in 1997.
In 1974, at the age of 28, he was elected State Auditor, becoming the youngest statewide elected official in Delaware history. After three terms as Auditor, he was elected New County Castle County Executive in 1980.
After leaving public office, Rick became President of Citicorp Banking Corp, and was Citibank’s Senior Officer in Delaware.
He participated in one of the landmark events in Delaware’s political and economic history, working with Republican Governor, Pierre S. du Pont and Wilmington Mayor, William T. McLaughlin, on the Financial Development Act, the 1981 legislation that brought the banks to Delaware.
Rick was an avid golfer, enjoyed playing with his buddies, “Breezy, Gene, and Jimmy.” So many great golfing stories he told; a bowl of pasta, the beach and wonderful Delaware memories for him.” There is a tee time in heaven waiting for Rick”!
Rick is survived by his son, Richard James Townsend Collins and other family members.
A contribution to Delaware Veterans would be greatly appreciated. Memorial services to be posted at another date.
From Focus Delaware 1/28/1982
“Focus Delaware” aired on Rollins Cablevision & WNS-TV Channel 2 and WTGI Channel 61 from 1980 to 1987 and was hosted by Bob Weiner.
