Herbert Wayne Austin

Obituary for H. Wayne Austin

October 11, 2023

H. Wayne Austin passed away in the home he grew up in on October 11, 2023. Born and raised in Putnam, NY, Wayne grew up with his older brother, Douglas Austin, and was raised by their mother, Bertha Davis Austin.

Wayne loved hunting and fishing and found a talent for leatherwork at a young age. At 16 years old, Wayne bought his first Harley from his brother and had been riding faithfully until the age of 65.

Wayne loved to talk and tell stories. He had a passion for adventure and wanted to see the country, which led him to become a bus driver for Adirondack Trailways. During his 30-year career, Wayne amassed 1,842,955 miles without an accident. He retired at the age of 59 and began restoring old toys as a hobby. Wayne built a phenomenal collection of toys including trains, tractors, and trucks. He loved to show off his toys and spent many hours talking about his collection.

Wayne enjoyed company and would often be found visiting friends at the nursing home or having a cold Genesee at the EMA. He loved his community, volunteering for Meals on Wheels and offering rides to many people for their doctor’s appointments. He loved conversations and could talk for hours. You could always tell he was in a room just by his laugh. He loved family dinner night and get-togethers.

Wayne was a proud father and grandfather. He is survived by his son, Marc Austin and fiancé Sarah Slattery of Crown Point, NY, his daughter, Leigha Harten and husband Charlie Harten of Glens Falls, NY, and his son, Kevin Austin and wife Jennifer Austin of Corinth, NY. Wayne loved his grandkids, Emma and Charlie (Jr.) Harten, and his grandson, David Austin, who he shared a special bond with. Wayne is also survived by his brother, Douglas of Adams, NY.

There will be a celebration of life at the Ticonderoga Employees Mutual Association (EMA) on November 12, 2023. All who knew Wayne are welcome to come and tell a story.