James Kenneth Collins

James “Ken” Collins, 86, of Eldora, Iowa passed away Thursday, October 5, 2023 at Allen Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa. Funeral services will be held at Abels Funeral Home at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, with Pastor Rick Bachman officiating. Visitation will be held Monday, October 9, 2023, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Abels Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made to the Collins family at: www.abelsfuneralhomes.com.

James Kenneth Collins, son of James Lester and Doris Elizabeth (Smith) Collins was born December 10, 1936 in Lucerne, Missouri. He graduated from Eldora High School in 1954. He then joined the United States Air Force and on March 18, 1955, married Viola “Vi” Margaret Brock at Shepherd A.F.B. in Wichita Falls, Texas. After Ken retired from the USAF as a senior master sergeant in 1974 with “20 years and 20 days”, he and his family returned to Eldora, IA. While walking past the police station in 1974, the chief at the time asked if he wanted a part time job. Ken became employed by the Eldora Police Department from 1974 to 1977. He was appointed sheriff in 1977, ran for re-election and won. Ken was the Hardin County Sheriff until 1980. He then returned to Eldora PD as its Chief for 17.5 years working alongside his son, Rick. Ken enjoyed his family first, which included many football players. He was an assistant football coach and had played football on the enlisted USAF team. He was an avid golfer and loved his Bassett Hounds.

Survivors include daughter-in-law, Pam (Steve) Collins- Schaller of Johnston; sister-in-law, Patricia Brock of Des Moines; grandchildren, Jim (Tonya) Collins, Jamie (Shannon) Balvanz, Jesse (Jen) Collins, Missie (Ryan) Lafrenz; great grandchildren, Ava, Brock, Riley, Chase, Tate, Blakely, Kendrick, and Bearett.

In addition to his parents, Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Vi Collins; daughter, Deb Collins; son, Rick Collins; brother, Gary Collins.

The family would encourage donations in lieu of flowers to the following: Wounded Warriors, American Cancer Society, and the American Heart Association.