BIDDEFORD – Robert R. Collard “T-Bleu”, 85, lifelong resident of Biddeford, passed away early Wednesday evening on March 29, 2023 at St. Andre’s Healthcare in Biddeford.

He was born in Biddeford on Dec. 3, 1937, a son of Armand and Germaine (L’Heureux) Collard. He was educated in Biddeford schools.

Bob enjoyed working with his hands and was employed as a builder throughout York County for many years. His finish carpentry work is still being admired today. He built many homes for his family and friends, and further enjoyed creating furniture and hand crafted special wood carvings for his family. In addition to his career in building he was also employed by the Biddeford Ice Arena where he loved watching games, and interacting with kids and families.

Bob had a great love of the outdoors. He spent many hours fishing, hunting and camping with family at his favorite place, Moosehead Lake. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife and some of their memorable trips include going to Alaska, Hawaii, California, Tennessee and the Amish Country. In recent years, he could be found driving throughout the state with his daughters reminiscing about his past adventures.

To know Bob was to love him. He was authentic, spoke his mind and lived life on his terms. He loved his family and cherished the times they spent together. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by many.

He was predeceased by his wife Lorraine (Nadeau) Collard; one son, Guy Collard; sister-in-law, Jacqueline Collard and brother and sister-in-law, Yvette and Paul Gobeil.

He is survived by four children, Debra Collard and Stan, David Collard and wife Judy, Donna Dearborn and husband Steven and Doreen Collin and husband Gary; four grandchildren Corey, Briana and husband Rory, David, Gina; and two great-grandchildren, Hunter and Joey. He is also survived by siblings Roger Collard and wife Connie, Richard Collard and Ronald Collard and wife Nicole; and several nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a funeral service at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 5 at Cote Funeral Home Chapel, 87 James St., Saco. Burial will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Biddeford. To view Bob’s memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit http://www.cotefuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s name to

Westbrook Skating Rink,

C/O Martin Grohman,

9 Lisa Lane,

Biddeford, ME 04005