Richard M Austin

Richard M Austin, age 84 of Marion passed away June 16, 2024, on Father’s Day, 1 week short of his birthday. He was born June 23, 1939, to the late Betty (Elmer) Griffith Post in Marion. Richard was married to the late Evelyn “Marlene” Austin.

Richard is survived by children: Richard Sobers, Todd (Julie) Austin, Mya (Guy Campo) Austin, Shad (Stephanie) Austin, Melissa (Aaron Stoneburner) Austin, grandchildren: Ritchie Sobers, Kristina Sobers, Vicki Scott Wright, Robert (Angela) Austin, Todd Austin Jr., Benjamin (Kristi) Austin, Courtney McMillon, Anna (Adam) Giles, Abigail Austin, Kyla (Douglas Beck) Walker, Britnee Ault, David Howard, Adrien (Stephanie) Howard, Auburn (Martin) Chevalier, Samantha (Kevin) Davis, Erin Howard, Noah Austin, Kytlynn (Brad) Arthur, Josalyn Johnson, Ethan (Melody-fiancé) Austin, and Nathaniel (Victoria) Wenninger, numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, siblings: Marilyn (Henry-deceased) McCalla, Winona “Noni” (Ron-deceased) Williams, and Robin (Gordon “Monty”-deceased) McKinniss. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and siblings: Jerry (Shirley-deceased) Austin, Michael Huston, and Jack (Carlotta-survives) Huston.

Richard “Dick” Austin was many things in his life. He was in the U.S. Navy. He served stateside during the Bay of Pigs, and his affiliated ship was the U.S.S. Somersworth. He was a Golden Glove boxer, and a hard laborer much of his life. He also worked at Open Pantry, his brother Jerry’s store, where he once saved someone’s life. He ended work life with many years at Smith Dairy, and then both in Dairy and Frozen Foods for Kroger Store #810, Marion, where he is still affectionately known as “Bear”. He had many dogs and some cats, all of which he loved. The dogs were often spoiled with cooked chicken and hamburger. He was an excellent cook and baker, and an avid OSU and Cleveland Brown’s fan.

As a dad, he’d have done, and often did, anything he could for his kids. Richard “Dick” was diligent with both little and much. He never gave up on life, love, or family even through tremendous losses. He will be dearly missed by his five children and the rest of his very large and extended family.

There will be no funeral at his request. Instead, at a later date, the family will host both family and friends to celebrate Richard’s life (with lots of food and his favorite family penny card game).

The family would like to give a special "Thank you!" to Marion General Hospital's nursing staff, as well as to Marine Vet. Gary Cox Jr. and Army Vet. Rev. Joe Harrison for honoring the family by performing the Veteran's Walk, which included draping and folding of the American Flag.  

Moments of remembrance can be left online at www.affordablecremationservicesofohio.com.