(March 29, 1925 to October 7, 2017) - In the company of people who loved him, Austin completed his earthly journey at Mill Creek Care Centre on October 7, and was elevated to a higher level. A devout Christian, Austin’s belief in resurrection and heavenly life gave him encouragement during this past year of tremendous challenge. He was predeceased in January 2, 2017, by his loving wife Elsie, with whom he shared 66 years. He is survived by his son Michael, whom he described as a brilliant imp as a little fellow. So often Austin expressed gratitude for Michael’s commitment to his long term care and his compassion in light of Austin’s health challenges. Austin is survived by his brother, Jack (Guelph). He is predeceased by brother Aubrey and sisters, Helen, Ruth and Geraldine. He has been well loved by nieces and nephews. He has been exquisitely cared for by the staff at Mill Creek Care Centre. He has been visited and loved by good friends. A journalist in his early years, at both the Toronto Star and the Globe and Mail, Austin used his incredible talents with people to take on a major public relations role with IBM in New York City. He and Elsie were pivotal in the early recognition of IBM by Asian countries. He retired in 1984 after a leadership role with Trans Canada Pipelines. At that time, he and Elsie retired to their beloved cottage property at Big Bay Point, where they re-built their permanent home. Meals on Wheels, Big Bay Point District Assoc, Royal Canadian Naval Reserve, St Paul’s and Trinity Anglican churches, Scouts Canada, the UWO Gazette, Toronto Press Club,the Canadaian Public Relations Society, and the Naval Ofiicers Organization of Canada, all benefited from Austin’s volunteer commitment.
A Memorial Service will be held and the date and time will be determined in the near future. Memorial donations may be made to Mill Creek Care Centre. Funeral arrangements in the care of Steckley Gooderham. Internment at St Paul’s Cemetery, Innisfil.