Douglas H. Austin

Douglas “Harv” Austin, 64, husband of twenty-six years of the late Marlene A. (Opidee) Austin, died Sunday, January 8, 2023 in his home following a long illness with his children and companion Linda Blair at his side.

Born in Ipswich on September 9, 1958, he was the son of the late Ronald S. and May G. (Stenhouse) Austin. Doug was raised in Ipswich, a 1976 graduate of Whittier Vocational Tech and a 1978 graduate of Essex Agricultural School. He studied culinary arts but soon went to work as a self-employed carpenter and builder.  Married in 1982, the Austins made their home and raised their family on Green Street.

Doug was well known as a builder and a friend. He was a self-proclaimed ‘townie’. He was an avid bowler, a member of the Tuesday League at the former Ipswich Lanes.  Doug spent his summers cooking at Frye Island on Sebago Lake, Maine, also enjoying cooking for his family and many local friends.   

Doug  is survived by his two sons, Casey M. Austin and his companion Shawntel Remy of Ipswich, Jake G. Austin and his companion Hattie McMath of Hamilton; a granddaughter, Harper Austin of Hamilton; two brothers Jeffrey Austin of Searsmont, ME and Barry Austin of Florida and Doug’s companion, Linda Blair.   He was the brother of the late Deborah Kaszuba formerly of Ipswich.  

Visiting hours will be held 4 to 7 pm on Sunday, January 15 in the Whittier-Porter Funeral Home, 6 High Street, Ipswich. His funeral service graveside will be private. Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the ALS Foundation at  www.donate.als.org

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