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Robert L. 
Austin

May 1, 1933 – August 23, 2017

Robert Austin
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"We are honored to provide this Book of Memories to the family."
— O'Brien Funeral Home

Obituary for Robert L. Austin

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Robert “Bob” Leighton Austin, 84, beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 23rd. He will be remembered for his humor, hard work, generosity, fairness, and joy of living.

Bob was born in Philadelphia, PA. He spoke often and fondly of growing up in close-knit family led by his dad and mom, Arthur and Anna, and sharing misadventures with his brothers, Art and Charles. He now joins all of them in perpetuity.

Upon graduating Dobbins High School, Bob was employed in the mailroom of the Philadelphia Electric Company. His work ethic and “can do” attitude quickly earned him the opportunity to learn the planning and installation of commercial air conditioning systems. He was soon promoted to management positions and made many lifelong friends within the company.

For most of his life, Bob lived in the Philadelphia suburbs of Oreland and Bluebell, and was an ardent fan of the Philadelphia Phillies. He was a skilled handyman and carpenter. He was most proud of his restoration of the family’s 18th century home in Bluebell. The place became the memorable setting for annual Christmas parties with as many friends and relatives as the house could hold.

Bob retired to Lewes, DE. With continuing energy, he refined his cabinetry skills and set up shop making custom furniture for local residents, shops and restaurants.

For all his responsibilities with family and work, Bob also recognized the importance of relaxation, often making it possible for others to join him in the good times, ranging from five o’clock martinis on the front porch to annual vacations on the isle of Barbados.

Bob is predeceased by his first wife Katherine Mottershead Austin, second wife Judith Blankin Craig Austin, and son Andrew Craig.

He is survived by his children, Anita Cafone (husband Frank) of Brielle; Dale (wife Deborah) of Raleigh, NC; Meredith Johnsen (late husband, Scott) of Oceanport; Judith Ann Carrozza (husband David) of Ambler, PA; and Merrill Craig of Phoenixville, PA; twelve grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Visitation

When Saturday, August 26th, 2017 2:00pm - 6:00pm
Location
O'Brien Funeral Home - Wall
Address
2028 NJ-35
Wall, NJ 07719

Service Information

When
Saturday, August 26th, 2017 6:00pm
Location
O'Brien Funeral Home - Wall
Address
2028 NJ-35
Wall, NJ 07719

Interment Information

Location
West Laurel Hill Cemetery
Address
215 Belmont Ave.
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Interment Extra Info
11:00am on Sunday, August 27, 2017
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