Rosemary Litty Collins
Rosemary “Roses” Collins
January 24, 1932 - November 12, 2020
Rosemary “Roses” Weidinger Collins, age 88, passed away peacefully from vascular dementia on November 12, 2020. She was born January 24, 1932 in Brainerd, Nebraska. She was married at age 19 to Steven Weidinger and had two children together, Cathy and Steve, and was preceded in her death by her second husband of 30 years, Dick Collins.
Roses was a pioneer of a woman who lived an incredibly exciting and fulfilled life. She graduated from high school in 1950 and soon after began her work as a secretary for Hughes Tool Company in the aircraft division. She earned her helicopter rating on April 23, 1962 and became the first female helicopter pilot to fly as a corporate demonstrator pilot. She was the 42nd woman in the world to fly a helicopter (in her pink helicopter of course) which earned her the 42nd spot in the Whirly Girls.
In the mid 1970’s, she opened her own travel agency, Roses International Travel and catered mostly to business clients, delivering every secretary a rose with each airline ticket purchased. She was a business woman with an entrepreneurial spirit, starting her second business in 1995. She opened Bear Creek Realty which she eventually sold to Coldwell Banker. She then owned a carwash, mini-storage and multiple restaurants with her late husband.
Roses traveled extensively living a life that many dream of. Some highlights of her life include Jimmy Van Heusen dedicating his Oscar winning song “Call me Irresponsible” to her and having dinner with Frank Sinatra. Three of her greatest loves were clothes, golf and animals. When it came to animals, she was extremely philanthropic, donating to every animal shelter, society and rescue.
She was a beautiful friend, mother and grandmother. From her very youngest years and even even into her 80s, complete strangers would stop her to say how beautiful she was. Roses was loved for her quick witted humor, her generosity, and her way to light up any room. She will be greatly missed.
She is survived by her daughter and her husband, Cathy and Dick Rainey and son, Steve Weidinger. She has five grandchildren, Jennifer, Christy, Mike, Lily and Lana and 7 great grandchildren.
Due to the Covid restrictions, there will be a small memorial service at England family mortuary on Monday, November 30 and a private burial following. Unfortunately, there will be no gathering after the burial due to Covid restrictions.
The memorial will be live streamed, if you are interested in a link or any questions please lilyrainey@me.com.
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So sorry to hear of Rose’s passing. I worked with Rose’s at Litton Ship Systems in 1969-1972. I was along time friend & golfer of Dick as well. They are now back together for eternity…RIP!