AUSTIN, Ralph E. – Of Flint, age 85, died Saturday, February 6, 2010 at Avalon Hospice. A graveside service will be held 11am Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at Sunset Hills Cemetery, Reverend Paul Ytterock officiating. Visitation 2-8pm Tuesday at the Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road.

Ralph was born in Boyne City, Michigan on February 13, 1924, the son of the late Frank and Ivy (Farrier) Austin. Ralph served in the United States Army and was discharged on February 16, 1946. On May 25, 1950, he married Winifred Watson. Ralph was employed with and retired from Consumers Power Co. He enjoyed woodcarving, painting, riding his bicycle and his grandchildren.

Surviving are wife, Winifred; Children, Rosemary Letourneau, Susanne (Jack) Gambina, Douglas Austin, Patrice (Paul) Chandler, Jean (Joe) Spurlock; Sister, Josephine Izett of Lawrenceville, GA; 7 grandchildren 11 great-grandchildren; Many nieces and nephews; Special friends, Mary Martin, Marilyn Robinson and Irwin Madison.

He was preceded in death by parents, brothers, Merlin and Gerald and sister Velma Byrne.

AFTERGLOW

I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one. I’d like to leave an Afterglow of smiles when day is done. I’d like to leave an echo…whispering softly down the ways of happy times and laughing times and bright sunny days. I’d like the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun of happy memories that I leave behind when day is done.

Your condolences may be shared with the family at www.swartzfuneralhomeinc.com