Anna Elizabeth Thouvenin Austin

Anna Elizabeth Thouvenin Austin, age 100, passed away January 21, 2019 surrounded by close members of her family. She is survived by her children: Barbara Austin (Glen Shipway), Patricia Bango ( Christopher), Robert Austin ( Pamela), and Maureen Austin of Canton, Ohio, Margaret Rafferty ( James) of N Carolina, Jean Brown of California, Mary Austin ( Daniel Poor) of Connecticut, and Emily Austin (Eric Martin) of Washington; nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward, her parents Anna and Louis Thouvenin, her sister Mary Gill and her brother and close friend, Louis Thouvenin. Anna, the second child of Anna Bayer Thouvenin and Louis ("Ed") Thouvenin grew up on the family farm in Sandy Township and graduated from Canton South High School. An accomplished musician both of piano and accordion, she played in a square dance band for years. Her artistry permeates her cheerful cozy home full of cherished memories and memoirs. At the age of 46 she suddenly became a widow and single mom after her husband died unexpectedly. Left with 4 school age children and a new baby born 6 weeks later, she courageously faced her grief and the trauma and provided selflessly for her children. She leaves a legacy of self-reliance, loving care, and support of others. She loved the natural world. Wild birds found feeders filled with seeds and suet and bird baths brimming with clean water. Garden and landscaping plants thrived. Travel and hiking with her grown children took her to Alaska, Hawaii, the North and South West, Virginia, the Carolinas and New England. She especially loved walks on the beach at Kiawah Island during family vacations A lifelong Catholic, Anna and her husband were founding members of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church where she served on the Ladies Guild committee. Friends may call Friday from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at Christ the Servant Parish followed by a Mass of Christian Burial, with thanksgiving and celebration of her life at 1:30 p.m. with Monsignor Lewis Gaetano as celebrant. The family suggests that In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Christ the Servant Parish or Crossroads Hospice/Palliative Care.