Austin & I met in elementary school at Macy. I remember being such good friends with him almost right away. We would often walk home together and I always looked forward to those days when he wasn’t getting a ride so that we got to walk together. One day in particular I remember it was pouring rain outside. I didn’t have a ride, but Austin did that day. He insisted that I stay back and wait for his mom so that she could give me a ride. She did & I was very grateful. He was always so thoughtful.

Back then everyone still had home phones. We loved to call each other in the evenings or on the weekends and talk and laugh for hours. Whenever I called his house and he didn’t answer my “is Austin home?” was always met with such kindness “yes, Hanna, just wait a minute I’ll get him”.

Now when Austin would call my house he didn’t always receive that same kindness. I had two older brothers would pick up before I could get to the phone & Austin would often be left with a short mean “no” and they’d hang up the phone. Of course I would be mortified and call him back right away. He knew they were just looking out for their little sis.

Elementary school was so fun because of our friendship. I remember thinking he had a sparkle in his eye back then. I just loved and enjoyed being able to talk and laugh with him.

I’m so incredibly sadden at this news. I am praying for all loved ones. Thank you for letting me share some early memories of Austin.