Peter Donald Austin, of Syracuse passed away Friday July 30, 2021 at home. Pete was born in Syracuse, NY. He graduated from Marcellus High, and attended SUNY Binghamton where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing. Pete most recently worked as a computer programmer for BAE Systems in Binghamton.
He is survived by sisters Sara Austin-Wilson (Navarino, NY) and Christine Austin (Bellingham, WA), his nephews Ben Wilson (Marietta, NY) and Kevin D. Battersby (Raleigh, NC), niece Natalie Wilson (Navarino, NY), and brothers-in-law Kevin A. Battersby (Camillus, NY) and Aaron Wilson (Marietta, NY). He was predeceased by his father, Donald C. Austin (1989), and his mother, Marilyn H. Austin (2020).
Though he had some significant struggles in this life, there are many ways that Pete shined. As a friend recently said… he had ‘a big heart and was liked by all’. He didn’t have much material wealth but was generous, giving very thoughtful gifts, and often remembered birthdays, reaching out with joy and celebration. He adored his niece and nephews, actively seeking to connect with them as only Pete could. He loved animals, especially his cat, Monkey and his recently adopted Chihuahua, Ruby.
Pete was very artistic, loved music, and had a great sense of humor. He so enjoyed rebuilding and restoring things, especially musical instruments of all kinds. Writing poetry & short stories and drawing have been favorite pastimes for Pete, and as a child he loved drawing cartoons. Pete was a Boy Scout for numerous years, and loved the outings to Sabbatis scout camp in the Adirondacks. As a teen, he had many adventures at Brewerton Speedway, helping with a variety of jobs with his good friends Tim and Mark.
Pete was a bit of a pyro-techie. He loved fireworks, and often purchased them just over the border in Pennsylvania, to then bring to gatherings at his sister Sara’s family camp on Lake Ontario. He especially enjoyed putting on a show for the kids.
Pete was a huge fan of Binghamton Senators hockey and Syracuse University sports, attending many games through the years with great joy & enthusiasm.
Calling hours are planned for 4pm to 6pm on Friday, August 13, 2021 at Plis Funeral Home, 33 North Street, Marcellus, NY, and a memorial service will immediately follow.