In Memory

Robert Austin (Teacher)

 

Aug. 22, 1938 – Nov. 19, 2014 

Robert Wayne Austin, of Amherst, a retired high school teacher, died Nov. 19 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital after a lengthy illness. He was 76 . Mr. Austin taught math and chemistry at Kenmore West High School for 36 years, retiring in 1998. In retirement, he continued to serve as a substitute teacher until 2012.  Known for his colorful neckties and red socks, he was adviser to the Key Club and Keyettes, Mathletes and the Statistical Math Club. He also worked at various school sporting events. Born in Cortland, he was a 1956 graduate of Cortland High School, where he played football. He received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics education from the University of Albany, where he played tennis. He began his teaching career in Liverpool in 1961 and came to Kenmore the following year. A member of the Order of the Eastern Star, he served several terms as patron for Bethlehem Chapter 634 and Sirius Chapter 302. With his wife and sister-in-law, he served as an adviser to Cassiopeia Triangle girls and worked at Buffalo Bills games with Cassiopeia Triangle. A longtime member of the Kenmore United Methodist Church, he taught Sunday school and served as church treasurer. He was an avid sports fan, attending Bills, Sabres and Toronto Blue Jay games regularly. He also enjoyed traveling. Survivors include his wife of 50 years, the former Mabel Hodgson; a son, Rob; two daughters, Amy Austin-Taggert and Laurel Austin-Smith; a brother, James; and three grandchildren. A combined memorial service for him and his sister-in-law, Lillian May Hodgson, who died Nov. 4, will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday in Kenmore United Methodist Church, 32 Landers Road, Kenmore.