Merle J. Austin

Age 74, passed away on Friday, November 18, 2005 at Bradford County Manor, PA. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Carol Stout Austin of Gillett, PA; Merle J. and Michelle Austin of Elmira, NY, Bessie and Dennis Collins of Elmira, NY, Connie and Tom Beauman of Gillett, PA; 5 granddaughters, Sharon, Megan, Stacey, Chelsea, Katie; 1 grandson, Joshua; brother and sisters-in-law, Carroll of CT, Stubbie of Gillett, PA, Lynwood (Ann) Austin of Wellsburg, NY; sisters and brothers-in-law, Barbara (Jim) Mint of Webster, NY, Marilyn (Arthur) Jenkins of Big Flats, NY, Mary (Bob) Rummings of Elmira, NY, Marcia Austin of Elmira, NY, Marie (Bud) Huddler of VA, Joyce Kinslow of Poughkeepsie, NY; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; special friends, Sylvia Thompson and family; and his two favorite dogs, Tiny and Baby.His parents, Augusta and Bessie Austin; brothers and sisters, Richard, Leo, Paul, Gerald, Cora Mae, and Dorothy, predeceased Merle.He was a member of the Eagles Club and the Horseheads Moose and loved to work, play bingo, and the outdoors. Family and friends are invited to call at Olthof Funeral Home, Inc., 1050 Pennsylvania Ave., Elmira, NY on Monday, November 21, 2005 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 PM, and Tuesday, from 11 AM to 1 PM. Funeral services will be held at the conclusion of Tuesday?s calling hours at 1 PM, with Lay Pastor John P. Knapp officiating. Graveside services will follow in the Bentley Creek Cemetery. The family wishes to thank the staff at Guthrie Hospice for their sincere compassion, and the nursing staff at Bradford County Manor for the wonderful care given to Merle on 3East and 3West.Those wishing may leave a ?Candle of Remembrance? for the family in Obituaries at www.olthof.com .