EAST HERKIMER-John B. Collis, 85 of Zoller Ave., E. Herkimer, entered into eternal rest peacefully on Sunday morning, January 2, 2011 in Folts Homes, Herkimer. He was born on November 4, 1925 in Little Falls son of the late Bernard E. and Marion (Casler) Collis. His marriage to Amelia Marocco took place on February 20, 1949 at St. Joseph’s Church, Little Falls; a union of 56 years until Mrs. Collis’ passing on November 28, 2005. A proud veteran of World War II, John honorably served his country with the U.S. Navy. He enlisted on February 22, 1944 and was honorably discharged on May 19, 1946 holding the rank of Fire Controlman, Third Class. Mr. Collis was the recipient of the Victory Medal, and the American and European Theatre Medals. In his earlier years, Mr. Collis owned and operated a contracting company and built many homes in Herkimer and throughout the Mohawk Valley, operating this business for over 25 years. Mr. Collis along with his wife was the founder of Collis True Value Hardware in Herkimer, running the business for over 30 years until passing the business on to his son. They operated the hardware store with a local approach and by building relationships throughout the community and surrounding areas. He brought to the store a loyal attitude, a dedicated commitment and a personal aptitude for his work. He created and maintained a fulfilling and productive career until his retirement. Proud of his military experience, Mr. Collis was affiliated with veterans’ groups as life member of the Herkimer VFW Michael S. Pliseck Post #4915 and a member of the Mohawk American Legion Post #25. He remained active in the community holding memberships with the Herkimer Elks Lodge #1439 for over 40 years, life member of the East Herkimer Fish and Game Club, served for 13 years on the town of Herkimer Board and as a county legislator for 7 years. Uncomplaining and courageous, John’s attitude as an inspiration to all those around him always maintaining his lifelong gentlemanly demeanor and community presence. Mr. Collis was a pillar in the community of Herkimer and recognized and admired by all who knew him. Although the many successes of his professional life were noteworthy and admirable, Mr. Collis considered his family as the most rewarding and memorable accomplishments of his life. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who will miss him dearly. He enjoyed playing golf when time allowed him to do so. Mr. Collis was a talented musician who loved to play the guitar, most recently at the Herkimer Public Library every Saturday. He had a great voice and found enjoyment in singing. Mr. Collis is survived by his four loving children, Karen A. Noble of Herkimer, Kenneth J. Collis and his wife Diane of East Herkimer, Kathleen A. Marollo and her husband Peter of East Herkimer, and Kristie A. Collis of East Herkimer; Mr. Collis’ very special friend and companion of four years, Mildred Marusic of Herkimer; five sisters in law, Lydia Krutz of Little Falls, Clara Kerzic of Little Falls, Antoinette Schaffer of Herkimer and Doris Marocco and Mary Collis of Virginia; seven cherished grandchildren, Stefanie C. Noble and her husband Joe Plessas, Matthew K. Collis and his wife Kelly, Rebecca L. Noble, John P. Marollo, Paul A. Marollo and wife Jennifer, Sarah D. Collis, and David A. Humphrey; three great grandchildren: Alex Collis, Madelyn Collis and Cecilia Plessas; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and many close family friends. He was preceded in death by a sister, Elizabeth Oldfield and by two brothers, David H. Collis and Richard Collis. The Collis family will receive relatives and friends at the Enea Family Funeral Home, 220 N. Washington St., Herkimer on Tuesday, January 4, 2011 from 4-8 p.m. Mr. Collis’ funeral will commence at 11:00 am on Wednesday, January 5, 2011 from the chapel of the funeral home with Carolyn Fletcher, funeral celebrant, officiating. Funeral procession will follow to St. Mary’s Cemetery, town of Herkimer where he will be laid to rest and military honors will be offered by the US Navy. Please omit floral offerings and kindly consider memorial offerings to the East Herkimer Fire Department or to East Herkimer Fish and Game Club; envelopes may be obtained at the funeral parlor. The following groups will conduct services on Tuesday evening at the Enea Family Funeral Home of Herkimer; Herkimer VFW Michael S. Pliseck Post #4915 at 5:45 pm; the Mohawk American Legion Post #25 at 6:15 pm; Herkimer Elk’s Lodge #1439 at 6:30 pm; and the East Herkimer Fire Department at 7:15 pm. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the personnel of Folts Homes, Herkimer and St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, especially mentioning 3B and the special care unit for their loving compassion and care. Mr. Collis' family is being cared for by director, Daniel J. Enea.