Richard Austin

AUSTIN, Richard J. - Age 87, died Monday, March 19, 2007 at Masonic Pathways in Alma. Funeral services will be held 11 AM Friday, March 23, 2007 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 711 S. Saginaw St., Flint with Fr. Martin Field officiating. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be 3-8 PM Thursday at the Sharp Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 6063 Fenton Rd., Grand Blanc Twp. with a Masonic memorial service being held at 7PM under the auspices of Flint Lodge  No. 23 F.& A.M. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church. Richard was born November 17, 1919 in Flint the son of Jason and Nora (Greene) Austin and had been a resident of Flint his entire life. He was a 1939 graduate of Flint Central High School where he was editor of the school yearbook. He  served in the Army Air Forces during World War II. Richard was employed by Buick for 40 years, retiring in 1985 and was a member of UAW Local 599. He was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church where he served as an Acolyte for over 60 years. He greatly enjoyed photography and luncheons with friends at Remington's and in the Masonic dining room. He also enjoyed telling stories about his Air Force career and how he won the title of World Champion pipe smoker in 1962. Richard's passions were service to his Christian faith and being deeply involved in many Masonic orders. He is survived by his brother, Jason of Davison; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, John, Robert and George; sister, Eleanor Meriwether. The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff for the great care Richard received while at Masonic Pathways. Tributes may be posted to www.sharpfuneralhomes.com