Obituary of William Austin JR

William E. Austin Jr. Age 86, of Joliet, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 4, 2008 with his family by his side. Born March 11, 1922, he was a co-founder of the Joliet American Legion Band. He also performed as a drummer in numerous jazz combos. An Army staff sergeant, he joined the 129th infantry in 1941 and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He was a dedicated employee of Trans World Airlines for 34 years, which allowed him to travel the world. He was a skilled artist and model maker, and an avid boater who loved golf. His lifetime memberships included the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the local and national chapters of the TWA Senior's Club. Bill was also a 1940 graduate of Joliet Catholic High School. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Geraldine "Gerry" (nee Stephen); seven children, William III (Vickie) of Wheaton, Janet (Pat) McCann of Wilmette, Thomas of Phoenix, Mary Pat (the late Steve) Allmandinger of Walcott, Iowa, James (Barbara) of Indianapolis, Judy (Rick) Short of Shorewood, and Michael of Chicago; 13 grandchildren; his sister Eugenia (Louis) Bank, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, the Honorable William E. and Lena (nee Warren) Austin, and his brother, Leo. Funeral services for William E. Austin Jr. will be Wednesday, April 9, 2008 at 9:15 a.m. from the funeral home chapel to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church for Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Mermorials to Joliet Area Community Hospice would be appreciated. Visitation Tuesday 4-8 p.m. at: FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOME 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet For Information (815) 741-5500 www.fredcdames.com