George Kenneth Austin

     George Kenneth “Ken” Austin age 91 of Laingsburg, MI, passed away Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Memorial Healthcare, Owosso, MI.
     A Memorial Service will be held at United Church of Ovid, on Saturday November 22, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at the United Church of Ovid. Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church. A luncheon will be held at the church following services.
     Ken was born in Ovid, Michigan on November 2, 1934, the son of George Kenneth and Josephine Louisa (Woodworth) Austin. He was a proud Spartan, attending Michigan State University and graduating with bachelors in Agriculture. On July 19, 1980, Ken married Shirley Ann (Walling) Austin at United Church of Ovid. They were blessed with forty-three years of marriage; prior to her passing on October 18, 2023.
     Ken worked at Great Lakes Hybrids in Ovid for over 30 years before he retired as a district manager. When he wasn't working, Ken loved spending summers on Lake Victoria, and winters on Mustang Island in Texas with Shirley. He was also a long time member of United Church of Ovid since 1945. Above all, Ken enjoyed being with his family, watching Michigan State Spartans sports, and attending his grandchildren and great-grandchildren's sports, and activities. He was an excellent caretaker, father, step-father, husband, and grandfather. His wisdom, generosity, and kindness will be greatly missed.
     He is survived by his children: DeEtta (Jesse) Patrick of Port Charlotte, FL; Nanette Leodler of Ashley, MI; Holly Austin of Laingsburg, MI; Kim (Diane) Winkler of Traverse City, MI; Kristi (Bryon) Taylor of Bannister, MI; and Kenda (David) Ladd of Fruitport, MI; his siblings: Marge Parmenter, Carol (Larry) Bashore, David Austin, Donald (Kathleen) Austin, and Ronald (Carole) Austin; and brother-in-law Lyle Clark. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Ken was preceded in death by his wife Shirley, his parents, his step-mother Edna Austin, and siblings: Dorothy (Patrick) McCarthy, and Bruce (Judi) Austin, and two step-sisters: Janice (Frank) Kirinovic, and Ann Clark.
     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the United Church of Ovid, 131 West Front Street, Ovid, MI 48866. Online condolences may be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Houghton Chapel, Ovid, Michigan.