Lifelong WaKeeney area resident, Claude Ulrich "Junior" Austin, Jr. , passed away Thursday, September 4, 2014, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital, in WaKeeney. He was 88 years of age. He was born April 5, 1926, in Collyer, the son of Claude Ulrich, Sr. and Carrie (Deatrich) Austin.

At seventeen years of age, Junior went to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. He served four years and was stationed in the Pacific Theater. In 1946, he married Gladys Lindsay. To this marriage were born two children. Junior worked for the Trego County Road and Bridge Department for most of his working life. He worked his way through the ranks until he became supervisor. Upon his retirement, he and Gladys enjoyed traveling and playing golf. He was very interested in reading and researching United States and Trego County history. His family was the most important part of his life and he loved them very much.

Survivors include a son, Rod of Salina; a daughter, Candace Austin of WaKeeney; a grandson, Travis Rothe of Ness City; and two brothers, Richard and wife Georgie of Medicine Lodge and Ronald and wife Donna of Washington State. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and a brother, Raymond.

The funeral will be private family services. Burial will be in the WaKeeney City Cemetery.

There will be no public visitation.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital (TCLMH). Checks made to the hospital may be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

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