Lonnell "Lon" Warren Austin

Age 71, of Little Falls, MN (formerly of Monticello). Passed away on Nov 28, 2020, in St. Cloud, MN.

Lon is preceded in death by his parents, Warren and Marian Austin.

Lon is survived by his wife Colleen of 47+ years, sons: Chris (Susan), Brett (Claire), Kyle (Laurie) and Drew (Kiley), grandchildren: Cailin, Anna, Madeline, Samuel, Mason, Sophia, Aubrey, Evelyn, Elliot, Kingston, and Raider; sister, Cindy Kunz; and many other family and friends.

Lon often told his wife “you married an Adventure”. His greatest adventure was being a fantastic husband to Colleen, father to his 4 sons, and grandpa to 11 grandchildren. His love for them was endless. Although Lon never had daughters of his own, he welcomed his daughter-in-laws as part of the Austin clan and embraced them as his own. Lon also shared his generous heart as a foster parent. He enjoyed spending time with them both individually and as one big family.

Lon was an avid outdoorsman. He loved his time on the water with whomever was in the boat. He fished throughout Minnesota and beyond. He fished in a Thursday Night Fishing League with many friends for numerous years. While Lon had many hunting successes his favorite was taking a record buffalo with a bow in Texas.

Lon also loved to camp.  His favorite place to camp was anywhere with Colleen. They spent a great deal of time camping throughout the state and particularly enjoyed their retirement years at Twin Lakes in Menahga, Minnesota. Whether it was just the two of them or a large group, Lon’s favorite camping moments always involved gathering around the campfire with some of his homemade wine and energetic conversations where Lon perfected his lively storytelling.

Lon was well known for his coaching antics in the Monticello Youth Hockey Association. Lon’s coaching legacy extended well beyond the rink. His genuine care for those who shared a passion for the sport was always at the forefront.  Anyone who had the privilege to call him Coach has a “Lon story” and those stories were some of the favorites in the Austin house and will continue to be for years to come.

Lon was very active in his community. In the 70’s, he trained and showed Gordon Setters and was instrumental in starting Gordon Setter Club. Professionally, Lon worked as a salesman including selling ads for both the Wright Way Shopper and KMOM Radio in Monticello. Lon was a member of the Knights of Columbus and was a confirmation sponsor/teacher at St. Henry Catholic Church in Monticello. His love for Christ and sharing that with the youth was special to him.

Lon was an entertainer at heart and loved to tell stories. He enjoyed making people laugh and having a good time with those he was with. When telling a story his energy was contagious. He had an enormous impact on those around him and will be greatly missed. 

Memorials in lieu of flowers. 

Private family services will be held at St. Henry Catholic Church in Monticello. Interment St. Henry’s Cemetery. 

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