Bob Austin

James Robert ‘Bob’ Austin, passed away peacefully at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on February 14, 2026 after a brief illness.  Bob enjoyed living at St. Andrew’s Residence in Chatham for the last ten years, after residing most of his life in the Blenheim area. Born in Chatham June 5, 1938, he was the last surviving member of his family. Son of the late Walter and Alicia (Barron) Austin, and brother of Francis (Mickey), John Mac, Ada Lachapelle, Dolores Kelly and Mary Theresa Nead (Mack).

Bob was a proud retiree of Navistar, who continued to give public tours of the plant after he retired.  He was active at St. Andrew’s, and always enjoyed a good social event.  Bob enjoyed outings with friends and family, including regular visits to the Legion with his nephew Mike. A man of deep faith, Bob was involved for many years with local prayer groups including the Third Order of Franciscans. He enjoyed different sports through the years including bowling and curling and was an avid racing fan. He enjoyed watching hockey and baseball, cheering on the Blue Jays during their run for the title last year.

Always there to lend a hand, Bob was loved by many nieces and nephews and their families and was an honorary member of the Zimmer family.  He will be missed by many.  Huge thanks to everyone at St. Andrews Residence for helping Bob enjoy such a full life, and to the staff who cared for him so compassionately at CKHA.

Blenheim Community Funeral Home entrusted with funeral arrangements.  Visitation will be held in St. Joseph’s Church, Chatham on Thursday February 19, 2026 from 11:00 – 12:00 followed immediately by a Funeral Mass.

Friends wanting to remember Bob with a memorial donation are encouraged to consider Outreach for Hunger https://outreachforhunger.com/donate/ or the Chatham-Kent Hospice https://chathamkenthospicefoundation.com/donations/