Obituary of Robert Francis Austin

Robert F. Austin 9/23/1958 -10/16/2023     

 “I know I’m dying, I’m not afraid to die, tell my family I love them."   Right up to his final moments in his earthly life our brother tried to protect and comfort us. Many would assume that our brothers’ life was without purpose because throughout the majority of his adult life he struggled with and suffered from an unforgiving disease - schizophrenia.  However, In retrospect, our brother taught us about the TRUE meaning of life through his determination, resilience and transcendent love.  He taught us perseverance and the value of education, achieving a degree in engineering as symptoms of his disease began to appear. He taught us bravery in the face of an unrelenting disease that frequently took away his ability to think rationally. He taught us pride and independence working a variety of jobs to be a contributing member of society.  He taught us the importance of faith and practiced his spiritual beliefs which required him to continually strive to be a better person.  And most important, he taught us unconditional love and empathy by allowing us to be a part of his wild and unpredictable earthly life journey.

Our brother Bob was smart, caring , extremely generous and well read. We were so blessed to have him in our lives and are comforted that he can FINALLY Rest In Peace in the loving arms of our mother and father and brothers Jim and Jerry.  

Bob is survived by his brother (and best friend), Thomas, sisters, Mary Ellen Muir (Albert), Kathryn Flemming (Rick Rinaud), Colleen Costello (Jeff) and  several  cousins, nieces and nephews.

Services will be private. No calling hours.

Donations may be made to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) 917 Avery Ave, Syracuse, NY 13204

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