Donald Warner Austin
COSHOCTON – Donald Warner Austin died peacefully on Sunday, September 9, 2018 at age 93. Don was the loving father of daughters Kelly Jo and Suzanne. He was proud grandfather of Rachel Zingg-Bowden and Katherine Zingg. He was also devoted husband to his wife of 57 years, Elva Younker Austin, who preceded him in death.
Don exemplified the qualities of our “Greatest Generation”. He will be fondly remembered by family and friends for his service in the Army Air Corps, as an avid fisherman, armchair quarterback, lover of music and mostly as a loving and devoted family man.
Don was born in New Philadelphia on May 19, 1925, the son of Floyd and Nellie Austin. He graduated from Strasburg-Franklin High, after which, he proudly served on a B-24 aircraft in the South Pacific Theater in WWII. He then attended Kent State University where he received a degree in Industrial Engineering. He met Elva Younker while attending Kent. They were married June 27, 1953.
Don and Elva began their careers and family in various locations, before eventually settling in Coshocton, where Don worked for Pretty Products for over 20 years, and Elva taught at Lincoln Elementary School.
Don was a conscientious man who worked within the community to improve the lives and opportunities of those with developmental disabilities. He valued education and possessed a life-long love of learning. He will be remembered for his generosity and compassion to all.
Our family will always cherish the times we had together with both Don and Elva; weekend trips to Lake Erie, holidays together, family dinners, and simply spending quality time together. Don adored his daughters and granddaughters. In addition to material and emotional support, he also instilled the values of hard work and selflessness.
Don is preceded in death by siblings, Lowell and Elson Austin, and Virginia Austin Napier. Don is survived by his daughters, granddaughters, and son -in-law, John Zingg and grandson-in-law, Tanner Bowden. Don is also survived by his niece, Amy and nephews Adam and Dennis (and wife Nadine) Landaw and their families as well as extended family.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 13, 2018 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Given-Dawson-Paisley Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 14, 2018 at 1:00 pm at the funeral home with Pastor Dennis Landaw officiating. Burial will follow at Fort Laurens Cemetery in Boliver, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hopewell Industries or to Community Hospice.
An online memorial can be viewed at www.given-dawson-paisleyfh.com.
Category: Obituaries
