Austin Ronald Smolskis

Austin Ronald Smolskis, beloved husband, father, son, brother, grandson, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on November 13, 2025, as the result of a tragic car accident. He was a steady light in the lives of all who loved him, and his loss leaves a profound emptiness in the hearts of many.
Austin was a devoted husband to Shannon, whose love and partnership grounded him. He was a proud and loving father to Luca and a caring, steady presence in the life of his stepson Davin. His family was his world, and he gave everything he had to them, his time, his warmth, his humor, and his unwavering support.
Born with a spirit made for the outdoors, Austin found his greatest joy in the woods and on the water. He had a deep passion for hunting, fishing, off-roading, and dirt biking hobbies that reflected his adventurous nature and love of wide-open spaces. He shared these passions freely, always eager to teach, to laugh, and to create memories with those around him.
Austin's first word was "backhoe" & he got to fulfill his dream as a heavy equipment operator in Local Union 825.
He is deeply mourned by his parents, Ron Smolskis and Kimberly Kaeser-Smolskis, and Ron's wife Donna and Kimberly's fiancé, Shawn. They raised a son full of heart and resilience. He is also survived by his siblings, Savannah, Zachary, Jessica and Jack who will forever cherish his guidance, teasing, and loyalty. Austin leaves behind his grandparents, Bill & Pat Kaeser and Elaine & Ronald Smolskis, all of whom loved him dearly and took great pride in the man he became.
Austin's life, though far too short, was filled with love, purpose, and adventure. He will be remembered for his big heart, his fearless spirit, and the way he could make anyone feel like family. His legacy lives on in the stories he created, the people he loved, and the memories that will be held close for years to come.
May he rest in peace, surrounded by the beauty he so deeply loved.
Please join us to celebrate his life on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 from 1:00-5:00 PM at the VFW Post 7677 at 317 Church Road, Medford, NJ 08055. Come dressed Austin-style: casual in your favorite jeans, flannel or camouflage.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Austin's memory to help Support Luca's future at the GoFundMe link below: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-lucas-future?attribution_id=sl:ab8c9d22-b59f-4100-a361-403bad7da761&utm_campaign=natman_sharesheet_dash&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link