Kenneth Eugene Austin, a lifelong resident of Grafton Road, passed away peacefully on Wednesday June 6, 2018, at the age of 84. Kenneth was born at home in Independence on May 4, 1934, the youngest son of 12 children, to Charles and Etta Costello Austin.
Kenneth was Methodist by faith and attended the Community United Methodist Church. He retired from the IUOE Local 132, where he operated heavy equipment for more than 36 years. Kenny’s resume would include many of Morgantown’s well-known land marks, such as, J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, Mylan Puskar Stadium, the PRT and the Coliseum just to name a few.
Kenneth was a Scout Master of Troop 64 and held every honor, badge and certificate possible. He was an instrumental part of developing, engineering and the construction at Camp Mountaineer. His philanthropic giving extended beyond the Scout’s. He was also a supporter for Hospital Auxiliaries from Morgantown to Sutton and volunteered with the Ronald McDonald House.
Kenneth was also a 32nd-degree Master Mason of the A.F & A.M. Masonic Lodge 43 located in Newburg.
Kenneth will be remembered and missed by many. His influence was noteworthy in the Grafton Road community and his memory will live on and through the numerous young men he mentored while participating in the Boy Scouts.
Kenneth leaves to mourn his loss a wife of 62 years, Mrs. Doris Austin; two sons, Andy Austin and wife Rhonda, of Core and Nick Austin and wife Charity, of Kingwood; three grandchildren, Hayden and Riley Austin, of Morgantown and Alexis Allen, of Kingwood; three sisters,Fern Austin and Mary Pitch both of Independence and Delores Howell and husband Moser of Morgantown; his closest friend, Chuck Shrout and many other scouting friends and extended family.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Etta Austin; one daughter, Carrie Ann Root; three brothers and five sisters.
Family will gather for a time of remembrance at the Fred L. Jenkins Chapel of Prayer, from 2-3 p.m., on Saturday, June 23, with memorial services to follow with Pastor Jim Freeland officiating.
There will be fellowship with family and friends at the Clinton District Fire Hall directly following the memorial service. All are welcome to attend. Inurnment of Kenneth’s ashes will be held at the convenience of the family.
Condolences: fredjenkinsfuneralhome.com
