LTC Ralph Anthony Austin, Jr., 81, a resident of North Syracuse, died peacefully Saturday afternoon at the Syracuse VA Hospital. He was the first child of Ralph and Laura Austin, born on February 14, 1933 in Utica, NY.
A member of the 1st Division Artillery, LTC Austin was honorably discharged from the United States Army after 28 years of service. He faithfully served his country while being stationed in Korea, Vietnam, and Germany as well as various posts in the continental United States. For his service he was awarded various medals including the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Air Medals. He received a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of New Hampshire and a Masters Degree in Library Science from Syracuse University. He was a life member of the VFW Post #3146 in Mattydale.
LTC Austin held several different civilian positions, working for, among others Carrier Corporation and C&S Engineering. He also worked for several years at the Rescue Mission prior to his retirement. LTC Austin loved spending time with his family, reading military history, conducting genealogical research and collecting stamps.
Ralph is survived by his wife of 56 years, the former Beverly (Domachowski); his six children: Tony (Sue) of Dallas, TX, Lorraine of Skaneateles, Patrick (Caris) of Orange, CA, Rebecca (Bob) Tinkham of Berkeley Heights, NJ, Paul (Jennifer) of Beacon, NY, and Marge Anderson of Campbell, NY; a daughter-in-law, Peg Austin of Liverpool; 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is survived by his brother, Robert of Painesville, OH and many nieces and nephews.
Contribution's in Ralph's memory may be made to St. Margaret's Church, 203 Roxboro Road, Mattydale, NY 13211.
Friends may call on Wednesday from 4 - 7 pm at Krueger Funeral Home, 2619 Brewerton Rd., Mattydale. Prayer Services are Thursday, 9:15 am at the funeral home with a 10 am Mass of Christian Burial at St. Margaret's Church following. Entombment will be in St. Mary's Mausoleum, Dewitt.