MARK I. AUSTIN

MARK I. AUSTIN - PANAMA CITY, Fla. - Mark I. Austin, son of John and Beverly Austin, passed away peacefully at his home in Panama City, Fla., on Dec. 17, 2012, following a lengthy illness. Mark was born on March 14, 1953, in Denver, Colo., where his father was stationed in the USAF. He grew up in Burlington, where he attended local schools and the First Congregational Church. He sang in both children's choirs, was a member of the Boy Scouts and the Order of De Mo Lay. After graduating from Burlington High School, Mark became a carpenter, plumber, and electrician in the family business, Lowell and Austin, Inc. He continued in this industry while living in Texas and Virginia, finally settling in Florida to raise his family. Mark's love of the water came from spending summers on Lake Champlain in South Hero, where he helped build the Austin family camp. He became a certified scuba diver and enjoyed deep sea fishing and underwater photography. He was particularly fond of Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and the Florida Keys. He loved music, was a natural singer, and taught himself to play guitar. He sang lead in the band Pyromania, as well as writing many songs. Mark leaves behind his son, John; daughter, Kathleen; granddaughter, Lillian; and the mother of his children, Lucinda Kemp. He is also survived by his mother, Beverly Austin; sisters, Linda Houton, Gayle Gardner, and Kendy-Sue Hardy; several nieces and nephews; and many cousins. Mark was predeceased by his father; sister, Pamela; and brother, Steven. Memorialization is by cremation, and the family will hold a private service at a later date. Those wishing to extend a word of condolence may do so at www.heritagefhllc.com. Donations in Mark's memory may be made to each individual's favorite charity.