Linda Ellen Austin was a caring daughter, wife, grandmother, sister, teacher and friend.

She passed away peacefully on Monday, January 2, 2023 at the age of 77 in the company of her husband William and daughters Shannon and Stacy, ending a 20 year journey with dementia.

Born the youngest of five children on May 26, 1945 in Shell Lake, WI to Ralph and Lulu (Butenhoff) Holt, Linda graduated from Spooner High School in 1963 and then received her teaching certificate before marrying Wiliam Austin on June 12, 1965 in Earl, WI. A lifelong teacher, Linda enjoyed children. She took time to see and listen to the children she encountered and to rock, snuggle, play, and do projects with her children and especially grandchildren. She was a woman of deep convictions and dedicated to the service of others. Linda loved to craft, sew, create and cook and often expressed her love through sharing these gifts.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Austin; 2 daughters, Shannon Knapp (Chris) and Stacy Austin-Li (Kai Li); 6 grandchildren - M’Lynn Knapp, Erica Knapp, Alecia (Clayton) Bruns, Brody (Veronica) Knapp, Raelynn Li and Kaya Li; 2 great grandchildren, William and Riley Bruns; a sister, Lois (Darrell) Courter; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her grandson, Austin Christopher Knapp; her parents; 2 sisters, Elaine Kruger and Norma Anderson; and 2 brothers Donovan and Larry Holt; and her stepmother Grace Schmidt Holt.

A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date. Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake, WI is assisting the family with the arrangements.

In honor of the caregivers who supported Linda and her family, a scholarship fund is being established to support local CNA students who wish to work in memory care.

Memorial contributions can be directed to the Linda Austin Memorial Fund in care of her family.

Last Update: Jan 05, 2023 12:44 pm CST