Richard M. Austin , 86, of Keene, NH peacefully passed away April 17, 2014 at Maplewood Nursing Home after a period of declining health.

He was born in Worcester, MA April 13, 1928, the son of James and Clara (Marsh) Austin. Mr. Austin spent his childhood years growing up in Dudley, MA, a neighbor to his “love of his life” and future wife, Lucille Bates. He attended Bartlett High School; Webster, MA and subsequently graduated from Williston Academy; East Hampton, MA in 1947 and Clark University; Worcester, MA in 1952 with a degree in business administration. During his high school and college years, he played basketball and football, however his true passion was baseball which he excelled at. Post college, he pitched on several semi-pro teams and was even invited to try out for his beloved Boston Red Sox.

Mr. Austin served in the US Army as a small arms instructor at Fort Lee, VA. Mr. Austin was employed by the former American Optical/Warner Lambert from 1954 until his retirement in 1985, holding various positions in production control, human resources and purchasing. During his early “retirement” he worked part time for a number of years with Electronics Aid Co. in Marlboro, NH as a purchasing manager.

Mr. Austin was a sports enthusiast. He and Lucille especially enjoyed watching their three sons play sports throughout high school and beyond. They were also frequent spectators at their grandchildren’s sporting and other school events. He cherished family gatherings, particularly during the holidays and summer barbeques. He loved to play golf with his sons, grandsons and friends at Bretwood Golf Course. He and Lucille also enjoyed spending the winter months in St. Augustine, FL for many years.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Lucille (Bates) of Maplewood Nursing Home, Westmoreland, NH, three sons, Gary and his wife Corinne of Hooksett, NH, Brian and his wife Beverly of Grantham, NH and David and his wife Molly of Surry, NH, a brother Robert and wife Pat of Summerfield, FL. He is also survived by eight beloved grandchildren, Gary’s Jenn and Greg, Brian’s Sarah and Kristina, and David’s Kyle, Courtney, Sophie and Abby.