Donald Wayne Austin

  Donald Wayne Austin was born in Houston, Texas, on October 21, 1953. His mom and dad, Ray and Gladys Austin, were the parents of five children, Kenneth Austin, Ted, Don, Roy Lee, and Patricia Austin Gravelin. Don's paternal heritage originated in North Carolina, just as Stephen F. Austin's. His maternal heritage originated in the Waco, Texas area. Don always wanted to present himself as a man of history, courage, and love.

  According to historical findings of great Americans, we have been told about their beliefs in God. Settlers of early America believed their love for God and country made a difference in both personal and public domains. Likewise, Don's character was like these new settlers. He personally believed in his heart Jesus died for him. Publicly his example, especially to the youth of Our nation, resembled his Texas legacy.

  Settlers came to Texas and celebrated Jesus Christ in home and in family. Don had no children of his own. When he married Marva Sue (on April, 8, 1983) he extended his life to her and to her children Jesse, Krista, and Nicole. He taught Marva how to love, he taught Jesse how to buy and sell heavy equipment, he taught Krista how she could be more than she ever imagined, and he taught Nicole how to be victorious, an overcomer. He knew Jesus made the difference. He learned God's plan for his life.

  Through broader holistic development of his mind, will, and soul, Don discovered things Jesus had already planned. A family, a home, friends who loved him, and the business Pathfinder Equipment. With the passing of time, Don's understanding of Jesus's plan broadened. He spread deeper joy, louder laughter, and unimaginable encouragement. So, Don intentionally chose obedience to the Lord as he learned the Word.

  What is a Christian? A Christian is someone who chooses Jesus and discovers the personal path created by Our Lord. Don was a Christian who learned over time that God's path works.

  His gift of joy was evident. To present history, courage, and love Don included Christ indirectly through laughter, humor, and words. For example, did you ever hear him say, "Why aren't you at football practice?" "Are you a real cowboy?" "What kind of car do you drive?" "Is your horse named Trigger?" So, some men believe in horses, some in chariots, but Don believed in the name of the Lord Our God. Jesus's plan works.

  Psalms 20:7 KJV Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.

  A funeral ceremony will begin at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 17, 2024, at the Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel, in Weatherford, Texas. Burial to follow at Spring Creek Cemetery.