Ike Austin was born on Oct. 20, 1937, in Natural Bridge. He was raised by his parents, Charlie Robert and Verbie Hawkins Austin, along with his nine siblings‒ Elsie Powell Flint, Robert Austin, Henry Austin, Esther Edna Kelley Orange, Harry Lee Austin, Albert Austin, Alvin Austin, Martha Austin Edwards and Roberta Austin Wilson.

In July 1955, Ike enlisted into the United States Navy where he served in the Air Anti-Submarine Squadron Thirty until he received an honorable discharge in October of 1958. In January 1961, Ike enlisted in the United States Army and served as a medical records clerk, holding the rank of sergeant at Womack Army Hospital in Fort Bragg, N.C., until he was honorably discharged in January of 1964.

Once he completed his military service, he returned to Rockbridge County. Ike was a trained electrician and had the skill set of a mechanical engineer. He worked and shared his abilities at Rea Magnet Wire, Rockbridge County Public Schools, and Bontex, from which he retired. He found many ways to remain active and busy during retirement. These included hunting and fishing with his close friends, sons, and grandsons.

In addition, he helped others by making various electrical repairs and volunteering at Stone Church of the Brethren. Ike’s life was devoted to serving and supporting his family, church and country.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his five brothers, and two of his sisters, Esther and Elsie.

Ike is survived by his former wife, Madeline Austin, and their two sons and their spouses Larry W. Austin and Brenda Austin of Rockbridge County and Mark D. Austin and Pam Austin of Botetourt County; four grandchildren, Alicia Austin of Brooklyn, N.Y., Brad and his wife, Hillary Austin, of Buena Vista, Kevin Austin and John Austin of Botetourt County; two great-grandchildren, Oliver and Charlotte Austin of Buena Vista; sisters Martha Austin Edwards of Roanoke and Roberta Austin Wilson of Brandon, Fla.

The family would like to share a word of special thanks to the staff at the Virginia Veterans Care Center, special friends Hugh Bazzle and Tommy Huffman, and those who sent cards and remembered Ike in prayers.

Those wishing to honor Ike’s life in lieu of flowers can donate in his name to Stone Church of the Brethren in Buena Vista.

A memorial service will be held at Stone Church of the Brethren in Buena Vista at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7. A private graveside service is planned for the family.

Bolling, Grose & Lotts Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. N-G