Barbara Austin

Barbara Jeanne Austin, (nee Cermak), 78, of Wadsworth, IL, died on Monday, April 30, 2007, at home with her family. Barbara was born October 21,1928, in Waukegan, Il, and was a 1946 graduate of Warren Twp. High School. She married Hollis Lee Austin on February 14, 1948, (Valentine's Day) at North Prairie United Methodist Church where she was also a member. Barbara was an accomplished seamstress, tailor, 4H Leader, and cook. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, who always had a warm smile. Barbara was a kind and gentle; yet strong woman, who courageously battled her illness to the end. She is survived by a daughter, Kristie (Robert) Steffensen of Antioch, IL; grandchildren, Jeff Bandman, Cheryl Stone, Taylor Austin, Hailey Corder, and Klaudia and Kristoffer Steffensen; one great-grandson Ian Bandman; brother, Donald (June) Cermak of Wadsworth, IL; nieces, Laura Fischer and Carol Field; and nephew, Rick Cermak. Also surviving is her beloved cat, Morris. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hollis Lee Austin; daughter, Diana Bandman; and son, Tracy Austin. A Funeral Service will be held Monday, May 7, 2007, at 10:30 a.m., at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Rd., Zion, Il. Interment will follow at Mt. Rest Cemetery, Newport Township, IL. Visitation will be Sunday, May, 6, 2007, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be sent to North Prairie United Methodist Church, 5000 9th Street, Winthrop Harbor, IL 60099. "Her life was a blessing, Her memory we will treasure, She was loved beyond words, She will be missed beyond measure."