Robert George Collins

Robert George Collins, of Hudson, Massachusetts, rode off into the great beyond on September 29, 2025, at the age of 58 — probably with a fishing pole in one hand and a wrench in the other.

A dedicated diesel mechanic by trade, Robert worked for Penske Logistics-Transportation Services in Southborough, MA, and was a proud member of the Teamsters Union. He could fix just about anything with an engine, and if he couldn’t, he’d at least make you laugh while trying.

Robert cherished his family deeply — especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy. He shared a particularly close bond with his grandson, Michael Robert, who proudly carries his name. Whether they were riding around the yard, sharing snacks, or just being silly together, the two were inseparable — a true grandfather and sidekick duo full of laughter, love, and inside jokes only they understood.

He had a goofy sense of humor, a big laugh, and a knack for being the guy you remembered at any gathering — usually because he was cracking a joke, pulling a harmless prank, or showing off his latest “treasure” from the flea market.

He had a deep love for the outdoors. Whether he was fishing in a quiet corner of a local lake, camping in Gloucester, or sneaking off to that sweet little cabin in Wells with his wife, Robert knew how to unplug and enjoy life. Summers were made for boating, winters were for complaining about not boating, and motorcycle trips to Laconia were sacred — the louder the pipes, the better.

Everywhere he went, kids and adults alike seemed to give him the same nickname: “Harley Bob.” Maybe it was the bike, maybe it was the leather jacket, or maybe it was just the unmistakable vibe of a guy who knew how to ride and how to live. The name stuck — and so did he, in the hearts of so many.

Raised in Berlin, MA, Robert eventually settled in Hudson, where he continued his lifelong mission to make people laugh and fix everything from engines to bad days. His legacy is one of laughter, loyalty, and just enough mischief to keep things interesting.

He is survived by his loving wife and adventure partner, Michelle Collins (Gerrior) of Hopkinton, MA; his daughter, Cassandra (Collins) Ware and her husband Tom of Marlborough; his sisters Cindy Collins, Donna Hunnell, and Heather Lamothe (Collins); his brothers, James and John Collins (both from Minnesota); his grandsons, Michael Robert Ware and Maverik Ware; and his granddaughters, Melanie Ware and MaggieMae Ware. He also leaves behind his step-brothers Richard Houghton, David Heath, and Michael Houghton; and step-sisters Patti Wolcott, Lee Harris, and Tracy Madden. And of course, countless nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, neighbors, fellow mechanics, and anyone who ever heard one of his legendary fishing stories (some of which may have been slightly exaggerated).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Frances (Curley) Collins; his stepmother Marie (Houghton) Collins; and his sister, Debbie Collins — all of whom he’s probably catching up with now over a cold beer and a good laugh.

A graveside service will be held at Forestvale Cemetery on Broad Street in Hudson, Ma on October 8th at 11 am.

Robert George Collins will be remembered not just for his skills with a wrench, but for the way he lit up a room, the love he had for his family, and the laughs he generously shared with everyone lucky enough to know him. If you'd like to honor his memory, consider donating to any addiction or alcohol recovery center — because Robert believed in second chances, support, and turning things around (preferably with a socket set and a smile).