William "Bill" Kenneth Austin

Obituary: William “Bill” Austin

William “Bill” Austin, born August 10, 1952 in Stockton, CA, passed away on July 21, 2025, at the age of 72. He died at the hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada, after a brief battle with brain cancer, diagnosed earlier in 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He lived a life marked by dedication to service, unwavering integrity, and a deep love for his family.

 

His young life was spent on a farm where he enjoyed spending time with his grandmother. In his younger years Bill enjoyed playing baseball; a passion that evolved into a lifelong love of sports. His favorite teams included the San Francisco 49'ers and any team the grandkids loved.

 

Military Service

Bill proudly served in the United States Air Force from the 1960s and retired after twenty-two years with the rank of Sr. Master Sergeant. He was first stationed at Travis Air Force Base, CA, enjoyed service at Rammstein, Germany, and RAF Lakenheath, England, and spent the final years of his career at Beale Air Force Base in California, retiring in the early 1990s. His hands-on leadership, warm smile, and genuine care earned him Air Force honors including:

• The Meritorious Service Medal
• Air Force Commendation Medal
• Air Force Achievement Medal
• Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
• Air Force Good Conduct Medal
• The National Defense Medal

During his tenure he participated with USO tours and personally met and assisted Bob Hope, Brooke Shields,  and other high-profile tour participants, entertainers, and dignitaries. He also lent a helping hand with Air Shows and other memorable activities. His time in the military reflected his steadfast commitment to duty and country. 

 

Career Post Air Force Retirement

After retirement from Air Force in the early 1990s, Bill transitioned into a successful second career in hotel hospitality. He joined the San Remo hotel in Las Vegas where he met the love of his life, Amanda. His exceptional hospitality instincts and tireless work ethic propelled him to Caesar's Palace and dedicated twenty-two years there prior to retiring. Bill's work ethic and reliability left a lasting impression on colleagues and guests alike.

 

Family and Sports

Bill’s living-room sports sessions were as legendary as any live event. Every Sunday he’d settle into his favorite recliner in front of the 85-inch TV with a Miller Lite in hand. He cheered on the 49ers and the Oakland A's so loudly that the grandkids would leap up to high-five him at every touchdown and home run.

 

In football and baseball’s off-season, he never missed a golf tournament—Masters weekend and U.S. Open highlights were must-see TV, and he loved pausing replays to admire each swing. He was also an avid sportsman engaging in baseball, softball, golf, and fishing. These pastimes brought him relaxation and camaraderie.

 

Between innings, touchdowns, or putts, "Papa" would pause the action to slip into a flawless Donald Duck impression—quacking through whole chapters of stories until he got the reaction he wanted from his audience. In addition to Donald Duck, he improvised voices tailored for each grandchild or great-grandchild bringing laughter and magic to every bedtime routine or visit.

 

He was also known for showing up and cheering every game the boys played. He enjoyed playing an active role in every child's sports activity and interests.

 

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Amanda, of almost thirty years and:

• Children

  • Kari Dumbaugh

  • Christina Kraft

  • Stephanie White

  • Brad Sideri

• Grandchildren

  • Andrew

  • Willie
  • Deandre
  • Lauren
  • Justin
  • Zachary
  • Aaliyah
  • Kaylee
  • Ellie
  • Noah

• Great-Grandchildren

  • Elijah (born on his birthday)

He is also survived by many nieces and nephews whom he loved greatly. Each member of his family brought immense joy to his life and were a source of pride and happiness.

 

He was preceded in death by his Father Bobbie "Pops," Mother Jean, Sister Sharron, Brother Phillip, and beloved family pet Precious.

 

Passions for Holidays and Travel

No holiday went unnoticed under Bill’s care. Every Halloween, he transformed the front yard into a spooky  haunted environment complete with fog machines and creaking doors. Each December, he draped garlands and twinkling lights from roof to doorframe and decorations in the yard and on every windowpane. He enjoyed trying to outdo his father-in-law and the neighbors.

 

In retirement he and beloved wife, Amanda, hit the road in his trusty truck or RV, camping beneath starry skies, fishing, and kayaking. Often these would be family adventures which would make them even more treasured for Bill.

 

Memorial Service

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bill’s life on Sunday, September 14, 2025. Visitation will begin at (3:00 PM). In lieu of flowers, the family requests guests to share their favorite memories, Bill-isms, photos, and character impressions on the tribute page. 

 

Bill was known for being honest, hardworking, and dependable. His legacy lives on through the values he instilled in those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but fondly remembered, by all who had the privilege of knowing him.