Dolores Jean Austin

MADISON – Dolores “Jean” Austin, age 74, of Madison, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2013, at UW Hospital in Madison. She was born on Feb. 5, 1939, in Madison, the daughter of Louie and Genevieve Walsvick. Jean married the love of her life, Charles “Duke” Austin, on Oct. 26, 1963, in Westport, and spent 50 years together. Jean attended Eastside Lutheran grade school and graduated with the class of 1957 at Madison East High School. She worked at Oscar Mayer prior to raising her family. Jean also worked part time at Dynatax and Soderholm foods. In Jean’s earlier years, she enjoyed bowling, golfing, and camping with her family. Jean loved spending quality time with her grandkids and family gatherings. She was known for her famous cut-out cookies, fudge and peanut brittle, that was always available in the freezer. Jean loved gardening and reading books in her backyard swing. She greatly enjoyed knitting dish cloths and hot pads. Jean always looked forward to getting together with Nyla, her classmates, girlfriends, and card club of 50 years. She loved dancing to “Tiny Bubbles” with her soul-mate the best. She enjoyed the tradition of eating Lutefisk and her daily newspaper word searches. Jean was known as “Wheelie Poppin’ Grandma”; and for her famous saying, “Oh Froggie!” Jean is survived by her husband, Charles “Duke” Austin; daughter, Dawn (Gary) Keys of Florida, twin sons, Dahn (Jean Brabender) Austin of Madison, Dale (Joanne) Austin of Madison, and daughter, Debra (Jason) Story of Lake Mills; grandchildren, Anthony, Ashleigh and Andrew Keys, Julie and Kelly Austin, Tommy, Timmy and Katelyn Story; a brother, Duane Walsvick of Waunakee, along with numerous friends and relatives. She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, David; and infant daughter, Diane. Memorial services will be held at EASTSIDE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 2310 Independence Ln, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 18, 2013. Visitation will be at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.