Neil Richard Austin

Neil Richard Austin, 82, of Venice, FL (formerly of Syracuse and Cape Vincent, NY) passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 with his wife Beatrice (Cookie) by his side, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. Neil was born March 13, 1940 in the Bronx, NY to Hilda Michaelson & Neil Richard Austin (both deceased). Neil graduated from East Syracuse High School in 1958.

Neil worked at Bristol-Myers Squibb, before partnering with Larry Butler and starting Butler Fence Co., Inc. After retiring from Syracuse, Neil split time at his river home in Cape Vincent and Florida. Many nights of boisterous card games ensued, along with the tranquility of enjoying his river views. French Days in Cape Vincent will never be the same. Besides socializing, Neil enjoyed traveling, his bike trips on his Harley and gardening. “Bapa” was especially proud of all of his grandchildren. Neil is survived by his wife of 40 years, Beatrice Austin, his three sons, Richard (Stephanie) Austin of Baldwinsville, NY, Michael (Kelly) Austin of Jamesville, NY, and Thomas (Wendy) Murphy of Syracuse, NY, his grandchildren Taylor, Nicklaus & Luke Austin, Carson, Bryn & Tanner Judkins, and Grace, Georgiana & Gabriela Paparo, brother Gene Austin of Oregon, and sister Della (Don) Moody of Virginia, sister-in-law Anne Hancock of Carthage, NY, sister-in-law Janice (Jim) Norris of Watertown, NY and several nieces & nephews. Neil was predeceased by his brother Arthur Michaelson. A celebration of Neil’s life will be held January 22, 2022 in Venice, Florida. Another gathering will be scheduled for the upcoming summer in the Syracuse area as well.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to:Tidewell Hospice Attn: Philanthropy Dept. 5955 Rand Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34238-9989