R. (Robert) Monroe Austin, 89, of Reading, husband of the late Joann M. (Priestley) Austin, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2020 at his home in Reading, PA.
Born in Phoenixville, PA, he was the son of the late Paul and Charlotte (Bieber) Austin.
Monroe was a member of the Coventry Church of the Brethren for more than 60 years. He was a member of the church choir and served as moderator. Because of a move to the Lenhartsville, PA area, he became member of the Wyomissing Church of the Brethren, joining their choir. He worked as a Draftsman for Bethlehem Steel located in Pottstown PA from 1956 until their closure. He continued his career in Drafting with United Engineers/Raytheon until retirement in 1994. He was a chaperone for the Owen J. Roberts School District Marching Band for 21 years, and was known as the “Voice of the Wildcats” until 1991.
Surviving are his children Carol McAllister, Jeffery Austin, Sandra Talley and Heatherly Mearkle; 5 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; 2 step grandchildren and 6 step great grandchildren. He is also survived by his Sister, Margaret (Austin) Buzzard.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Please check back.
This is Carl.
I’ve known Monroe for quite a while. His was a very “gentle” man, excellent tenor who sang in our choir. I am proud to have known him and it was a privilege to sing with him for so many years. I am glad that I was able to transport him to Choir practice and church when he was unable to drive. I will always remember Monroe everytime I read a “Herman” cartoon in the papers. We would laugh a lot about them. Peace be with you, Monroe.
We will all miss Monroe who I knew through our association at the Wyomissing Church of the Brethren. What I remember most about Monroe was his super friendly smile. When we visited Monroe and Joanne at their home on the lake, they made us feel very much at ease and we so appreciated what a wonderful couple they were. Rest In Peace, Monroe.
Glenn