Thomas Eli Austin

Thomas Eli Austin, age 84, entered into eternal life with the Lord on Monday, August 6, 2018, at home, surrounded by loved ones. Tom was born to Eli Henry and Mildred Elizabeth Austin on December 24, 1933 in Owatonna, Minnesota. Upon graduation from Owatonna High School in 1951 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He earned third-class rank and served the balance of his duty as storekeeper in Yokosuka, Japan. He has very fond memories of his 3 years of service. He then became a member of the American Legion. Tom married the love of his life, Shirley Ruth Peterson at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Owatonna on September 9, 1957. They were married for 55 years. She preceded him in death on March 7, 2013. He attended the University of Minnesota, obtaining a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1958. Tom's career was spent adjusting claims for Home Mutual Insurance Company, which later became Secura Insurance Company. He retired after 35 years, then joined Shirley full-time with Austin Coffee Service. Together they grew their home-based business. Tom had a passion for golf, gardening, and following his favorite sports teams. Tom was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. He served as hospitality minister there. Tom is survived by his four children: Edward (Kim) Austin, Karen (Brian) Douglas, Joel (Sherry) Austin, and Sue (Brad) Cunningham; his nine grandchildren, Austin and Andrew Cunningham, Tara (Jeff) Staples, Ashley Austin, Matthew (Megan) Austin, Corinne Austin, Scott, Kevin and Mary Douglas; and his two great-grandchildren, William and Benjamin Austin. Tom was preceded in death by one sister, Jean Hagen and one brother, John Austin. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, August 9 at the home of Tom and Shirley. Friends and family are invited to stop by from 5:00-9:00 pm. Visitation will be from 1:00-2:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church on Friday August 10, with Funeral services at 2:30 p.m. Interment will be at Columbia Cemetery with military honors. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to Tolton Catholic High School in Columbia, Missouri. Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203; (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com