Lorene Austin passed away peacefully on August 6th, 2024, at the remarkable age of 101.
Born July 10, 1923, third of six children to Carl and Elda (Krey) Felts, Lorene grew up in rural Robinson, graduating with the Cardinal class of 1941. Following the United States’ entry into WWII, she and a friend traveled by train to California to aid in the war effort. She spent the duration of the war years as a real life “Rosie the Riveter”, assembling P-51 Mustang fighter plans. She was united in marriage to Emery Austin, Jr. in September of 1946. Together they made their home in Robinson until moving to Topeka in 1957 for his job with the National Guard. During their 57 married years, they enjoyed traveling throughout the country, attending many of his military reunions. He passed away on October 16, 2003. In 2018, Lorene sold her long-time home on Twiss Street and relocated to Hiawatha to be closer to family. She remained active and self-reliant well into her late nineties.
Known for her assertive personality, independence, and kind heart, she will be remembered and dearly missed by all.
In addition to Emery, she was preceded in death by her parent, brothers Dwight and Lloyd Felts, and sisters Dorothy Steele and Ruth Schuetz.
Lorene is survived by her sister, Mary Ann Hathaway of Raymore, MO and a number of nieces and nephews.
At her request, no public service is planned. Private inurnment in the Rose Hill Cemetery, Robinson will occur at a later date.
Those wishing to leave a remembrance for the family may do so at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com.
