Darrel W. Austin, 84, of Carson City, Nevada, passed away on February 1, 2024. He was born February 23, 1939, in Coquille, Oregon to Martha and Herbert Austin, the youngest of fourteen children.
Darrel was an amazingly loving and devoted husband and father. He is survived by daughter Linda Hampton and her husband Brian; son Darren Austin and his wife Diana; granddaughters Stephanie and Stacie, great grandson Cole, great granddaughters Scarlett and Lily; and beloved sister Bunny Bishop; and his numerous nieces and nephews.
Upon graduation from Marshfield High School in Coos Bay, Oregon he held jobs as a postal worker and firefighter prior to joining the US Air Force in order to serve his country. His first duty station was Fairchild Air Force Base where he met Chris Stolz, his much-loved spouse and partner of 55 years who passed away in 2018. Darrel had an illustrious 26-year career with the Air Force, receiving numerous accolades including the Bronze star for service in Vietnam. He moved rapidly through the ranks and was the youngest serviceman at the time to receive the designation of E-9 Chief Master Sergeant.
Upon retirement from the Air Force, he moved to Carson City where he’s resided for the last 37 years. He worked as a Buying Supervisor for the State of Nevada for ten years, after which he retired again. He and Chris loved to travel and were members of the Silver Sierra Adventurers with Frontier Travel where he held the office of President prior to stepping down to provide loving care to Chris as she fought a long battle with cancer.
Darrel could frequently be spotted on early mornings at the Carson City Aquatics Facility therapy pool trying to stay active. However, his true home away from home was Slot World, where he dined at Betsy’s Diner and
played his favorite Keno machine.
Darrel had the personality and natural charisma to make friends no matter the situation. His laugh was infectious to everyone around him. He quietly supported many causes and felt it important to share his blessings with those around him. He was a selfless, generous, and beautiful soul whose passing leaves an unfillable gap in the hearts of his loved ones.
The Celebration of Life and interment with military honors are being planned with details forthcoming.