Obituary of Paul R. Austin

Paul R. Austin, 73, of Ransomville, NY, died November 13, 2013 in Mount St. Mary's Hospital, Lewiston. Born in Niagara Falls, NY on July 30, 1940 to the late Lawrence and Beulah (Johnston) Austin and had been a lifelong resident. He graduated from Wilson High School in 1958 and then enlisted in the US Marine Corp. in 1959 until his honorable discharge in 1963. On August 10, 1962, Paul married Ann Carter and together they raised their family in Ransomville. Paul worked as a Fireman in the Fire Brigade Unit at Harrison Radiator, Lockport, for 34 years, retiring in 1999. In 1958 Paul joined the Ransomville Volunteer Fire Co. and held offices of Fire Chief and Lieutenant and was an active member with 55 years of service to the community. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed fishing with his brother, Jim in many tournaments for many years. In addition to his wife, Ann, he is survived by three daughters, Lynn (James) Suszczynski of Kenmore, NY, Paula (Col. James) Stopa of Camp Lejeunne, NC, Marianne Snopkowski of Wixon, MI; grandchildren, Steven and Skyler Snopkowski, Alyssa, Alexa and James Stopa; his brother, James (Patricia) Austin of Ransomville; his cousin, Ronald (Margaret "Peggy") Johnston of Ransomville; his mother-in-law, Ramona Carter and two granddogs, Zippy and Titan. Paul was predeceased by his son, Lee R. Austin; and father-in-law, Kenneth Carter. Friends may call at the HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, 3648 Ransomville Rd., Ransomville, on Friday from 2-4 & 7-9 PM. Funeral service will be held Saturday, November 16, 2013, at 10:00 AM at the funeral home, with Rev. William Lowery of the Ransomville Free Methodist Church officiating. Burial to follow in North Ridge Cemetery, Town of Cambria, NY. Memorials may be made to the Ransomville Volunteer Fire Co., P.O. Box 239, Ransomville, NY 14131.