Frank Henry Austin was born on Nov. 24, 1932, to Ralph and Amy Austin in Twisp, and passed away on July 21, 2014, at Colonial Vista Nursing Home in Wenatchee with family by his side. Frank spent the last four years at Colonial Vista as a result of a horrific car accident in June of 2010.
Frank was a lifelong resident of the Methow Valley and a veteran of the Korean War, serving with the U.S. Navy. He earned a purple heart while serving his nation. He was a man who would give a person the shirt off his own back and would do anything for you. Frank spent many years working for the mill in Twisp, and many years for the U.S. Forest Service as a crew boss for the Hot Shot fire crew.
Frank was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to fish, hunt, hike and play in the mountains and prospect up the Twisp River. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. May you rest in peace, our loving father, brother, grandfather and friend.
Frank is survived by his children Bill Austin (Lightning Bill) of Bridgeport, Harvey Austin of Twisp, Debbie Waymire (Buki) of Bridgeport, and Henry (Shelly) Austin of Bridgeport. He is also survived by his grandchildren Garrett McCracken, Courtney Austin and Savannah Austin.
His surviving siblings include Dave (Sharon) Austin and Bob (Connie) Austin of Twisp, Edna Best of East Wenatchee, Nellie Harris and Doris Tideman of Seattle, Pearl (Virgil) Imes of Okanogan, and many nieces and nephews. Frank was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ralph and Amy Austin, daughter Thelma, brother Ralph (Joyce), ex-wives Mary and Louise, and stepdaughter Mary Lara. Rest in peace, Dad — we love you!
A special thanks to Aunt Edna, cousins Cindy and Suzy, and Uncle Dave and Aunt Sharon for all the hours you spent with dad!
There will be a public visitation at Barnes Chapel in Brewster Wednesday (July 30) from 5 – 7 p.m. Services will be Thursday (July 31) at Barnes Chapel. There will be a graveside service immediately following at Beaver Creek Cemetery in Twisp, at approximately 1 p.m.
Services are under the direction of Barnes Chapel. Please feel free to leave your condolences and memories for the family at www.barneschapel.com.
