Made major contributions to NASA space program
Published November 26, 2020
NORTH READING — Dennis Francis Collins, Jr., 84, died peacefully in his home, with his beloved wife by his side, in North Reading on Nov. 16, 2020.
Dennis, originally of Hyde Park, Boston, was a graduate of Boston University, where he graduated second in his class while earning an aeronautical engineering degree. He went on to earn a master’s degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute.
In his early career, Dennis worked for the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, where he made significant contributions to NASA’s space flight program. In 1966, he married Solfrid Svalgres, a beautiful Norwegian woman whom he met while dining at a German restaurant in Washington, D.C. Eventually, the couple settled in North Reading, where Dennis continued his lifetime of civilian service working as an engineer at the U.S. Department of Transportation in Cambridge. Dennis and Solfrid went on to have a son, Brendan, and a daughter, Britt.
Dennis was a gentle, humble and religious man who loved nature and was devoted to his family. Over the years, Dennis became accomplished at many hobbies including sailing, photography, fly fishing, skiing, gardening, playing flamenco guitar and furniture making. He was happiest when taking long walks in the woods with his wife, children and dog, Nosey. He also enjoyed listening to jazz while reading the newspaper and his travels to Norway. Although he was not one to brag about his own accomplishments, he thoroughly enjoyed bragging about his grandchildren’s.
Dennis is survived by his wife Solfrid, who cared for him during his long illness. He is also survived by his son Brendan and daughter Britt and his five beloved grandchildren, Boden, Donovan, Sophia (his favorite), Aidan and Rachel, as well as several nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Marie.
Those wishing to honor Dennis’ life may make a donation to Catholic Relief Services or Food for the Poor.
His funeral was held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading. Interment was in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit: www.croswellfuneralhome.com.
