Hardin Ambrose Collins, Jr. "Hank"

Hardin Ambrose Collins, Jr. “Hank” was baptized into the hope of Christ’s resurrection, Friday, January 9, 2026 at the age of 68. Hank passed away peacefully in his home with his loving wife by his side.

Hank is survived by his beloved wife, Marynel Collins (nee Salerno). Loving father of 5 wonderful children and 3 bonus children: Clair (Dan) O’Brien, Joe Collins, Angeline (Tom) Henson, Nick Collins and Tony (Bekah) Collins. Loving Grandfather, G, G-Man, Gee Gee of 8: Andrew Henson, Nolan Henson, Annemarie O’Brien, Oliver Collins, Emmet O’Brien, Wyatt Henson, Colin O’Brien and Lilyanna O’Brien. Brother to Dan Collins, Sue DiPiano, Amy (Dave) Barlow. Brother-in-law to Tony (Mary) Salerno, Beth Ernst, Sue Bruno, Joan Morrissey, Ahnna (Denny) Bruno and 32 nieces and nephews and 21 great nieces and nephews. He will meet his father and mother Dr. Hardin Collins, Sr. and Isobel Mariam Collins (nee Amick); father-in-law and mother-in-law Joseph and Mary Salerno; brother-in-laws John Morrissey and Phil Bruno in heaven.

Hank and Marynel married on March 28, 1981 at St. Frances Xavier Church on the St. Louis University campus. They would have been celebrating their 45th wedding anniversary this year.

The love Hank had for his family was unmatched. He took great pride in being a loving husband, father and grandfather. Hank enjoyed many wonderful activities with his children; taking them hunting and fishing, teaching them all how to ride horses, and teaching them life lessons in how to be honest, loving and kind. As a father he enjoyed watching his children in all of their countless activities whether it was football, hockey, baseball, volleyball, dance or softball he would beam with pride. He was his kids #1 fan! Each summer he enjoyed spending the 4Th of July out at the farm and the big family softball game. When it came to his grandkids his love for them was profound. He enjoyed the special times and moments that he shared with each of them. A smile was on his face whenever they were around and he would laugh hearing about all their shenanigans. They were the apple of his eye.

Hank will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. A special thank you to his St. Luke’s Hospital Hospice team of caregivers. They went above and beyond to help during this time.

Memorials: In honor of Hank, and in lieu of flowers and plants, memorials may be made to: St. Jude Children's Hospital, 680 Craig Rd. #300, St. Louis, MO 63141.

The family is being served by Pitman Funeral Home.