James E. Austin, “Papa” 68, of Roscoe passed away Thursday, March 21, 2019, in Javon Bea Hospital. Born September 22, 1950, in Beloit, WI, the son of Frank Oscar and Laura Violet (Brown) Austin. Married Patricia (Green) Austin on May 29, 2010. Formerly owned Micro 15 Grinding currently employed by Ro-Pal Grinding. Jim was an avid Harley rider. He enjoyed snowmobiling, camping, cookouts, and vacationing at the beach in North Carolina. Jim was always busy helping others. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, especially with his grandchildren. “Papa” could fix anything. Jim was a loving and caring person, he had an infectious smile and personality, he could brighten the darkest of moments and bring joy to anyone who knew him or even a stranger. He loved to laugh even at the worst of times, when you wouldn’t expect someone to be laughing, but that was “Papa”. Everyone that knew Jim would tell you that he was an amazing man with the biggest heart and would give you the shirt off his back. No matter who you were, or where you came from, Jim treated you as family and made you feel welcome. Jim was an unforgettable person, even if you only met him once, he made an impact on your life. He was the glue that held our family together. Survivors include his wife, Patricia; children, Jamie Floyd (Amie Manning) Austin, Raymond Zwiger, Beverly (Eric Holden) Zwiger and Joshua (Jessica Bennehoff) Green; daughter-in-law, Amber Austin; grandchildren, Michael Austin, Jessica, Zach and Cameron Manning, Gianni and Arianna Austin, Riley Lewis, Justin Lewis, Jr., Kiara Holden, Kaylee and Karsen Green; great-grandchildren, Olivia, Jackson Floyd and Mason; sister, Mary Ryman; many nieces and nephews; special pet, Daizy. Predeceased by his parents; son, Michael Austin; several brothers and sisters.
Service at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 30, in Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park. Burial in Argyle Scottish Cemetery. Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 29, in the funeral home.