John Austin

John L. Austin, 78 of Watertown passed away peacefully in his sleep after a long battle with cancer on Monday, October 15, 2018 at Marquardt Healthcare.

John was born on November 13, 1939 in Fairgrove, Michigan, the son of Justus and Maxine (Gardner) Austin. John joined the US Airforce in 1958. While stationed in Japan he met the love of his life, Joyce A. Cramer, and they married on August 6, 1966 at her family's homestead in Dousman, Wisconsin. The couple enjoyed 52 years together. John proudly served our country for over 21 years, retiring as an Air Force Master Sergeant (E7) and remained active in the military through the Reserves in Milwaukee. John and Joyce were active in the Waukesha County 4-H with their children and grandchildren. Above all, John enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his loving wife, Joyce, 4 Children: Joni Austin of Palmyra; Judi (Richard) Gilbert of Oconomowoc; Jeremy (Tracy) Austin-Bardo of New York; Jason (Cindy) Austin of Madison, 8 Grandchildren: Scott (Molly); Nick (Michelle); Benjamin; Kathy; Drew; Grey; Quin; Kitty, 7 Great Grandchildren, brother Keith (Marilyn) Austin, and 2 sisters Jane Wandrei and Nancy (Roger) Conley. John is also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

John is preceded in death by his infant son, Jeffrey John Austin, and will be placed with him at Arlington National Cemetery. A celebration of life for John will be held at that time.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org).