Gerald Austin

Gerald Milton Austin passed peacefully on Thursday, November 25, 2021 with his partner, Sandy Larson by his side at the Cypress Regional Hospital, Swift Current, SK. Gerald was born September 29, 1949 in Gull Lake, SK — the fifteenth child born to Thomas & Mabel Austin.

Gerald attended elementary, middle, and high school in Simmie, SK and Shaunavon, SK. Upon graduation, Gerald started travelling the world for his career. At 18 years old, Gerald had the opportunity to move to Singapore for his first job. He spent nine years as a seismic graph crew member on ships that charted seas and oceans around the world, moving quickly to operations manager of the ship and crews. 

Gerald worked for Champion Tech for 36 years as a Specialist Technician, building products and providing solutions to challenging situations. His skills were requested far and wide, which allowed him to travel the world — from the Arctic to Antarctic, and everywhere in between. In later years, Gerald’s passion for his career and talents saw him continuing to work with Pure Chem.

Gerald had an innate ability to connect with many around him, even when language was a barrier. Those who enjoyed meals and kinship around Gerald & Sandy’s kitchen table over the years were privy to the numerous harrowing stories of life and death — High seas. Horrific storms. Fires on the boats. Being swept into icy waters. Courageous journey’s shared with passion and jovial humor.

Gerald Milton Austin will be cherished as a kind and loving partner, brother, father, grandfather, and friend. During his career and travels he made instant connections with many, his kindness and compassion for family and mankind was one of his greatest attributes. Gerald graced everyone he touched with humility and respect. 

Gerald is survived by his partner of 25 years, Sandy Larson; his daughter, Brenda Austin, and granddaughter, Ella; his son, Brady (Taylor) Austin, and grandchildren, Novia and Jaxon; his sisters, Loretta Trozzo, Pat Nordhal, and Deloris Burkin; his brother, Harry Austin; and by his many friends.

In respect of Gerald’s wishes, no formal funeral services will be held. A private family service will take place at a later date.

Family appreciates the thought and consideration, but flowers are respectfully declined. In lieu of flowers and in memory of Gerald Austin, donations made to the Swift Current SPCA (Box 1163, Swift Current, SK, S9H 3X3) would be appreciated by the family. 

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