William Joseph Austin

William Joseph Austin (a.k.a. Bill or Billy A) passed away at home on October 7, 2022, with his wife and son by his side.  He resisted leaving this world and we are convinced it was because he wanted to enjoy several more days of watching James Bond movies (a family favorite), listening to music, and watching football with his son and wife.   

Bill was born on May 11, 1931 in Chicago, Illinois to his parents Alfred and Madeline. He, along with his brother Alfred Jr., and his sisters, Joan and Jane, grew up in Chicago.  When he was 21, he joined the United States Air Force and served for nearly two years as a radar instructor until the Korean War ended. His time in the service led to a special connection with his son and daughter-in-law ("the Colonels Austin" as he liked to call them) who served on active duty and continue to serve in the reserve as Judge Advocate Generals. Bill went on to succeed in a variety of careers including as a golf pro, stockbroker, director of marketing for a national floral nursery, and finished out his professional career as the founder of his own marketing company.

Bill was a kind, curious, and creative soul who cared deeply for his wife, Mary. They were married for 52 years. They were best friends and had a great life together. Fourteen years Mary’s senior, Bill would often proclaim to the world that his job in retirement was to make Mary’s life easier. Billy A constantly looked for creative ways to show Mary how much he loved her. He was extremely proud of his son, Chad and went out of his way to congratulate, celebrate, and cherish Chad’s many accomplishments throughout his life.  Bill was equally proud of his daughter-in-law Erica and granddaughter Schianne marveling at their many achievements and loving them both for their kind and humorous souls.  

Avery Austin, Billy A's granddaughter, welcomed him in the afterlife. Undoubtedly, Avery is showing Gramps around and reacquainting him with his precious animal companions.  He is survived by his wife, Mary, his son Chad, his daughter-in-law, Erica and granddaughter, Schianne.

In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree in Bill’s name or donating to Compassus Hospice the members of which provided tender care to Bill during his final months:

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