Obituary of Charles M. Austin

Charles M. Austin, of South Yarmouth, a Retired Police Detective for the Wakefield Police Department, passed away peacefully at the age of 81 on December 3. 2018.  A former longtime resident of Melrose and Burlington, Charlie (aka “The Tuna”) leaves behind the love of his life, Joan (Confalone) Austin.

The son of the late Malcolm and Frances Austin, Charlie was raised in Melrose where he graduated from Melrose High School.  It was there that he met his future bride, Joan.  After graduation, Charlie proudly served his country, enlisting in the United States Marines.  He attended Northeastern University and Curry College graduating with a Bachelors’ degree in Law Enforcement.

This former Marine and family man had an amazing work ethic and zest for life.  He was a true hero and provider to his family.  When not working “Charlie hours,” “Tuna” enjoyed many sports and had many hobbies.  He enjoyed working outside around his beloved “Cape” house, loved the Patriots, loved playing cards, always had a “buck” for the next game, and he always had a smile and a big appetite for food, family and fun.

Charlie had many friends in Wakefield, on the WPD and in the community which he served.  He also had many friends on Cape Cod where he loved to play golf and socialize, and many friends in Naples, Florida where he vacationed for several years.  Charlie will be sorely missed by everyone who knew this amazing, and generous human being. We will be forever grateful for his kindness, direction, love, and generosity.  The Tuna adored his precious grandchildren and was extremely proud of their individual accomplishments.  Rest in Peace, Charlie our love.

In addition to his wife Joan, Charlie is survived by his children, John Austin and his wife Debbie of Naples, FL; Michael Austin and his wife Kathleen of Burlington; and Ann-Marie Gardella and her husband Daniel of Haverhill.  He was the grandfather of Nichole Austin of Montreal, Canada; Matthew Austin and his wife Ashley of Tewksbury; Samantha Hall and her husband Seth of North Carolina; Olivia Austin; Jill Austin; Ryan Austin; and Christine Gardella.  He was the great-grandfather of Finley Jean Austin.  Charlie is also survived by his brother, Malcolm Austin of Falmouth; and his In-laws, John and Carol Jensen, Kevin and Jean Sullivan both of Wakefield; James and Karen Confalone of New Hampshire; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A visitation will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (Exit 34 off Rt. 128, Woburn side) on Sunday, December 9 from 4-6 p.m., concluding with Funeral Services at 6:00 pm.  Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend.  Private graveside services will be held at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in Charlie’s name may be made to the charity of your choice.