Obituary – William Edward Collier – Christopher

William Edward Collier, 85, died Tuesday May 6, 2014 at his home surrounded by those that loved him.

He was born on January 29, 1929 in West Frankfort, the son of Richard and Lydia (Gunter) Collier.  William married Anna Marie (Ferrando) on October 2, 1948 and she preceded him in death on January 3, 2006.

He graduated from West Frankfort High School.  He enlisted into the Army in 1947-1948, and then reenlisted for the Korean War from 1950-1951.  He was part of the Invasion of Inchong.

He is a member and past master of the Christopher Masonic Lodge 1016; he was a 32nd degree Mason; Ainad Shriner; Police officer for the City of Christopher for 16 years, and served as Alderman in Ward I for 24 years; he was a member of the Teamsters (Retired Truck Driver) and a retired driver for the Marion eye center.

Survivors include a daughter Ellen Neikes and husband James of Christopher, a son Steve Collier and wife Cindy of Christopher, IL.  Three grandsons Michael Neikes and wife Jennifer of Marion, Anthony Neikes of Christopher, and Christopher Collier of Christopher.  One Granddaughter Allison (Neikes) Peterson and husband Anthony of Simpsonville, KY.  Two Great-Grandsons Ehren Neikes and Austin Minton of Marion.  Three Great Granddaughters Sarah Peterson of Simpsonville, Ky, Keira Neikes of Marion, and Kaitlin Neikes of Marion.  Sister Estella Walsh of Memphis, TN, Sister-in-law Janet Collier of Decatur, IL.  He is survived by several nephews.  He also leaves three special friends Barbara Zeboski of Christopher, Eva Adams and Joe Mezo of Benton.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and two brothers James Collier and Gerald Collier.
William will always be remembered as a person who loved to talk about his life in the Army, the places he traveled as a truck driver for Bonifield and Yellow Freight, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and driving and enjoying his car.

Services will be on Saturday May 10, 2014 at 11 a.m.. at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher, with Brother Denny Bush officiating.  Burial will be in Mulkeytown Cemetery.  Visitation will be on Friday May 9, 2014 from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home.  Masonic service will be at 7:00 P.M. on Friday May 9, 2014.

For more information go to www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com .