April 27, 1943 — June 12, 2025 (age 82)

Joan K. Esplin Collins was born on April 1943 to Ralph and Bernice Esplin. She was accompanied by a twin brother, Gene. They were born in Preston, Idaho.

Her early education was through the public school system graduating from Preston High School in 1961.

While in high school, she joined the Civil Defense Organization Corp. It was run by the Air Force that enlisted volunteers to watch for and report aircraft movements.

This began her interest in service to our country. After graduation , some friends suggested that she join the Woman’s Marine Corp. She took the plunge and signed up.

From this point on her life was the Marine Corps.

She served honorably and spent her entire career in the Marines. While serving, she met a fellow marine by the nam

See Full Page