Marilyn Jean Austin, 65, of Warsaw, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, September 24, 2022, at Blessing Hospital in Keokuk, Iowa.

 

Marilyn was born on April 10, 1957, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Wilbert and Lucy (Towles) Hauff. She was united in marriage to Gerald Hester in 1978, who passed away in 1985. In 1988, she was united in marriage to Jeffrey “Jeff” L. Austin in Keokuk. He survives. 

 

Marilyn held several jobs throughout her life, tending bar at Whitey’s and Haage’s, cleaning houses and working at gas stations among other occupations. She loved being in the great outdoors, tending to her flowers and mowing. In her younger years she was a tremendous athlete who enjoyed running, biking and bowling. Marilyn never knew a stranger and loved helping others through Meals on Wheels. She was an avid card player, and especially enjoyed playing Euchre. She loved animals of all kinds, but most of all, she cherished her family.

 

Marilyn is survived by her husband Jeff Austin of Warsaw; four children: Angela (Johnny) Gonzales of Carthage, Illinois, Christian Hauff of Keokuk, Thadius Hester of Fort Madison, Iowa, and Ashley (Tiffany) Austin of Colchester, Illinois; four siblings: Richard Hauff of Keokuk, Patty Hauff of Warsaw, Bubby (Renea Glenn) Hauff of Keokuk, and Lena (Bruce) Dyer of Keokuk; five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Marilyn is also survived by her three dogs: Dottie, Buddy and Bowser.

 

Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Gerald Hester, her stepson Nathaniel Tregar, her nephew Nathan Keppel, her brother-in-law Steve Austin and her sister-in-law Sally Hauff. 

 

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

 

Memorials may be directed to Hearts of Hancock Animal Shelter.

 

Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.

 

Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.