Robert Collingwood 1955-2025

Born Sept. 23, 1955, in Youngstown, Butch is the son of the late Robert H. and Marcella Ferguson Collingwood.

On Jan. 22, 1982, Butch married the love of his life, the former Denise Schwartz. Together, they shared 38 years of love and partnership until her passing on Oct. 14, 2020.

Butch and Denise were well known throughout the Struthers community for their dedication to local causes. Butch was especially beloved for playing Santa Claus at the annual Shop with a Cop program during Christmastime. He and Denise also helped organize numerous car shows over the years to raise money for the program, helping to ensure that underprivileged children could enjoy the holiday season.

A hardworking and dependable man, Butch spent several years as a truck driver for Waste Management before continuing his career with the U.S. Postal Service, where he later retired. He also spent a lot of time at Macejko’s and Demyan’s, being a tow truck driver and giving his expertise to those he worked with.

Butch had a lifelong passion for cars and motorcycles. He could often be seen riding his Harley trike around town or lending a hand in someone’s garage. Butch took great pleasure in helping his nephew Brian build his 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle and passed on his knowledge and skills to his son, Justin. A regular at car shows and swap meets, he took great pride in his collection of classic vehicles, including his 1963 Buick Riviera, 1972 Dodge Dart and 1962 Mack truck.

Known for his sharp wit and trademark sarcastic sense of humor, Butch was the kind of person who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. To the community, he was “Butch” or “Uncle Butch,” but to his loved ones, he was a devoted “Dad” and “Grandpa” — roles he cherished more than anything.

He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication and generosity.

Butch is survived by his children, Elizabeth Collingwood of Liberty Township and Justin (Sydney Burget) Thrush of Struthers; his sister, Judy Collingwood of Cornersburg; seven grandchildren; many loved nieces and nephews; and his loyal dog, Millie.

Family and friends may call 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, July 11, 2025, at Davidson-Becker Funeral Home, 11 Spring St., Struthers, OH 44471.

In honor of Butch, the family invites attendees to wear a Harley-Davidson shirt or drive their motorcycle or classic car, just as Butch would have loved.

Online condolences may be shared at www.beckerobits.com.

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