William Berkley Austin

William Berkley Austin passed away peacefully on October 14, 2023, at the age of 86 years. Remembered and sadly missed by his children; Scott Austin (Susy) of Summerland, Marty Austin (Pam) of Summerland, and Darrin Austin (Wendy) of Calgary; 5 grandchildren, Lorena Graydon (Oliver), Matt Austin (Kaori), Caley-Anne Austin, Trevor Austin, and Samuel Austin (Lindsay); 2 great-grandchildren, Sophie Graydon and Yuki Austin; and sister Olive Hunter of Summerland. Sadly, predeceased by brothers Ron, Ashley, Roger, and Ivan Austin, and his wife, Sharon Ann Austin. 

Known as Willy to his many friends, Dad was born in North Hatley, Quebec, and moved out to Summerland with his parents, sister, and four brothers in 1946. He graduated from Summerland Secondary School in 1955 and married Mom in 1960. He started working at Larsen’s Tire Hospital on Front Street, later becoming a partner in Penticton Retreading, and then owner of the business with his partner. Dad also worked as a production foreman at Barkwill’s Cannery for five years.  

Community service was important to him. He was a member of the Kinsmen Club for many years, a Cub Scout leader, involved with the Summerland Fall Fair, Citizens on Patrol, and received a Snow Angel award in 2010.  

Even more important was his family of three boys. He was the Bank of Dad, a helping hand for any project, a moving company, a constant presence in the stands at baseball, hockey, and basketball games, the leader of the Austin Men’s Bowling League team, and the driver of players to tournaments in winter and summer. We always knew we could count on Dad when we needed him. His work ethic was unmatched.  

He loved being Grandpa and was even happier to be Great Grandpa. Dad’s last year was spent at Haven Hill Retirement Home where he was well cared for.  

Your work is done Dad, rest well. 

A private family service will be held at a later date.