Frederick W.B. Austin ’58

Fred died May 15, 2022, in Lake George, N.Y. He was 85.

He came to Princeton from Queensbury Central School, where he participated in basketball, soccer, and dramatics. At Princeton, Fred joined Dial Lodge, majored in civil engineering, and was in ROTC. He roomed with Ed Polcer, Ed Hansen, and Pete Bays.

After graduation Fred went into the Army Corps of Engineers, leaving with a captain’s commission. His career revolved around nearly 30 years in charge of the Warren County (N.Y.) public works department. Fred helped plan and oversee major projects, including establishing the Warren County Bikeway, the county fish hatchery, and upgrading Warren County’s airport. His name was synonymous with his position. In the 1980s and early 1990s, the NYNEX telephone white pages had a long list of Warren County’s department phone numbers except for the Department of Public Works, which was merely listed as “Fred Austin ... 623-4141.” No other county official was personally listed like this.

After his retirement in 1997, Fred continued to serve the county as a consultant. In addition, he oversaw the construction of the Fort William Henry Hotel and Conference Center.

Fred is survived by Lori Barber; his four children, seven grandchildren; and his new great-grandchild who arrived in time to make him smile. The class extends its deepest sympathy to them all.