Raymond E. Collins

Raymond E. Collins, 89, of Syracuse, passed away Wednesday, October 29, 2014 at Upstate University Hospital at Community General.  Born in Syracuse, he attended St. Lucy's Academy.   A Navy veteran during World War II, Raymond served aboard the USS New Jersey and received 11 battle stars.  He was employed for over 35 years with Morris Distributing Co., retiring as vice president in 1989.  He was a former member of the Cavalry Club.   Raymond was predeceased by 15 brothers and sisters.   Surviving are his wife of 67 years, the former Helen Cooper; daughters, Cynthia (Gerald) Grosso, Kathleen Broader and Mary Pat (Steve) Pouliot, all of Syracuse, and Margaret Schick of Fayetteville; sons, Lawrence (Susan) of South Onondaga and Michael (Robin) of Cazenovia; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.   Relatives and friends may call Sunday, November 2 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.   Services will follow at 5 p.m. at the funeral home.   In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Raymond's memory to St. Lucy's Food Pantry, 432 Gifford St., Syracuse, NY 13204 or to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208.