Joel T. Austin, 58, of New Smyrna Beach, FL, died unexpectedly May 18. He was the son of the late Dilton V. (Tex) and Carolyn Austin. Joel was a 1972 graduate of Wareham High School and a 1976 graduate of Massachusetts Maritime Academy.
Born in Wareham, Joel moved to New Smyrna Beach shortly after graduating from Mass Maritime.
Joel was a captain in the Merchant Marine and had sailed on many vessels over his 30-year career, until his retirement in 2005.
One of Joel's pleasures when home from shipping out was spending time fishing the backwaters of New Smyrna and spending time with his family and friends. He had forged many lifelong friendships with his fellow shipmates. Joel always had a knack to break into a sea story and make everyone laugh. Although a Floridian for many years, Joel loved coming back to Cape Cod to visit family and friends and especially enjoyed spending time with his brothers.
Survivors include his wife, Janet, and his two children, Valerie of Riviera Beach, FL, and Joel Jr. of New Smyrna, FL; his three brothers, Raymond of San Diego, CA, Billy of Wareham, and Jimmy and his wife Melissa of Rochester; nephews, Sam and Ben of Rochester, MA and Scott Sanchez of South Easton, MA, and nieces Kristan Khan of Orlando, FL and Alexandra Baker of Falmouth, MA.
A celebration of his life will take place Thursday May 30th, 4pm at Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society Chapel, New Smyrna Beach.
Bill & Cindy Berl
It's been a long time since I have seen my friend but the memories of my teammate at Wareham High School will last forever.
Tough as nails yet always there with that smile and something to make you laugh.
My condolences to you Ray-my good friend and Jim and Melissa and Billy.
Your brother has left this world but his memeory will be with us forever.
Thanks for the memories and good times Joel.
With deepest sympathy to all the family
Paul Winberg
Though too soon for him to go, Joel managed to bring many years' worth of smiles, laughter, and good stories while here. He will be missed by all of us but not forgotten.
My sincere condolences to his wife and children - and to his brothers as well.
God bless you, Joel - thanks for the laughter -
Steve Maloney
Our deepest sympathy to you all. Riverside has lost a brother. May the good memories be with you always.
Jean, Laurie, John & Lisa
Stephen
Marjie