Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
John Richard Austin
1953 - 2025
BORN
1953
DIED
2025
John Austin Obituary
July 11, 1953 - June 21, 2025
John Richard Austin, born July 11, 1953 in Omak to Richard (Dick) and Joan Austin. He attended school all 12 years in Omak and was very active in sports playing football, basketball and baseball. He graduated with the Class of 1971 and after high school went to Wenatchee Valley College where he played football.
He married Theresa Poole Rusk June 12, 1976 and became a stepfather to Scott and Leigha Rusk. They lived in Wenatchee until they settled their family down in Chelan and opened A&M Body Shop with his uncle, Leo Miller. John did well in his business, and some might say he was an artist with a paint gun.
He was active in Chelan City Council for a term and an avid golfer when time permitted. John sold his shop in 2018 but worked for some time as needed. He was troubled by health issues the last few years of his life and suffered a stroke June 12 and was flown to Spokane Sacred Heart hospital where he passed away on June 21.
He is survived by his wife Theresa (Terri), stepson Scott (Katie) Rusk, stepdaughter Leigha (John) Patton, son Kris (Crystal), mother Joan Austin, sister Shari (Jerry) Hendrick, brother Glen (Carrie) Austin, grandchildren, nephews and nieces too numerous to list!
A potluck Celebration of Life was held at the Chelan Eagles on July 26 with many of John's relatives and friends from all around the state. He will be missed! Submitted by his mom, Joan Austin.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Austin
1 Entry
Wayne & Topsy Stevens
August 14, 2025
To all the Austin Family,
Sorry to hear of John's passing, we had many years of friendship within the Autobody Craftsman Assoc. & CARS
Wayne & Topsy Stevens
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
Make a Donation
in John Austin's name
Memorial Events
for John Austin
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Austin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
