James Austin

James P. Austin, June 25, 1948 – May 27, 2023 James (Jim) Paul Austin of O’Fallon, MO passed away Saturday, May 27, 2023 at the age of 74. Jim was born in St. Louis, MO and is preceded in death by his parents Paul and Mary (nee Kovach) Austin; brother Gerald (Jerry) Austin; and his cherished soulmate Kathy Newberry. Loving father of Angela (Robert) Laramie, Erin (Michael) Copelin, Brian Austin; proud grandfather of Marina, Lilly, Elaina, Jaxson, Cameron, Justine (Kyle), Austin, McKenzi and Dallas; treasured great granddaughter Lucie; brother John (Sandra) Austin; sister Debra (Randy) Jacoby; sister-in-law Dollie (late Jerry) Austin; dearest uncle, great-uncle, cousin and friend to many. After high school, Jim went to work for McDonnell Douglas Aircraft and then enlisted in the United States Army. He proudly served his country as a Sergeant, Military Police, and paratrooper in the 101 st Airborne Division, Screaming Eagles during the Vietnam War. Jim was awarded two Bronze Stars, The Army Commendation Medal, along with other meritorious achievements. Jim was a devoted member and volunteer of VFW Post 2866 in St Charles, MO. He went above and beyond to help raise money with the Veteran Service Officer Fund, the Missouri Veterans Home and the VFW National Home. Jim wore many hats at Post 2866, but the most famous was the "King" of the Queen of Hearts. Jim spearheaded this weekly event which has helped the Post and Veterans in many ways. His dedication and contributions will be greatly missed. Jim was kind, loving, caring, and had a great sense of humor. He was generous to all that he knew. He never met a stranger. Jim loved his family. Fully. One of his favorite past times was watching his grandkids play sports. To say he was proud of them was an understatement. Jim was also proud of his many nieces, nephews and the large extended bonus family of grandkids who all loved him. He was always offering words of encouragement. During a Podcast interview in 2020, Jim was quoted saying, “If you’ve got the incentive and you’ve got the desire, you can do it. It’s easy to quit, but it’s hard to keep going on”. Military Service: Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at 9:30 am A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at VFW Post 2866 at a later date - Details Pending Memorial contributions may be made to: Kohl-Jeck VFW Post 2866 In Memory of Jim Austin 66 VFW LN Saint Charles, MO 63303-5168

James Austin

June 25, 1948 - May 27, 2023