Clay City, Indiana - Fredrick Van "Fred" Collins passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026. Fred was born in Brazil, Indiana on October 31, 1952 to the late Ferrel and Marybelle (Barton) Collins.

Fred graduated from Clay City High School with the class of 1970. He attended ISU for two years following graduation. On August 4, 1984, he married the love of his life, Kathy Giltz. They would have celebrated 42 years of marriage on August 4th. Two years and one week after they were married, they welcomed their son, Casey. In his younger years, Fred worked at Quaker Maid until it closed and then Pillsbury Company until they closed. He then worked for Union Hospital until GE Healthcare took over the Biomedical Department. He retired from GE Healthcare on his birthday in 2017.

Fred loved riding his Harley and going on rides with Kathy and Casey. He enjoyed going to auctions, yard sales, and antique shops. Fred never met a stranger and loved to tease and joke with others. He enjoyed working in his shed on various projects. Fred's greatest joy in life was spending time with his family and especially his grandkids.

Fred held many Saturday meetings in the "White House" (the shed) where he, Jim Creek, and Guy Greenlee tried to solve the world's problems. They shared many lunches together and tinkered with different kinds of motors, machines, and equipment with electrical and mechanical issues.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Ferrel and Marybelle Collins, and his brothers Redgie and Ryan Collins.

Fred is survived by his wife, Kathy, his son Casey (Brittany) and grandchildren, Madelynn Fletcher and Charles "Charlie" Collins. A niece, Lisa Collins, and many extended family members and close friends.

A visitation will be held Saturday, August 8th from 11-1 at Schoppenhorst Funeral Home, 301 E. 8th Street in Clay City. A funeral service, officiated by Nathan Couch will begin at 1 P.M. Burial will follow at Sink Cemetery.