Leonard G “Len” Austin

Leonard G. Austin, 93, born October 5, 1929, in London, England peacefully passed away on November 21, 2022. He was born to Albert Austin and Charlotte Freeth. He graduated with a BS in Physics, Chemistry and Pure Maths from London University in 1950, and a PhD in Fuel Technology in 1961 from the Pennsylvania State University.

Leonard is survived by his wife Sofia, his ex-wife Ann, and his three children: Mark, Timothy, and Stuart. He also leaves his grandchildren: Thomas, Charlotte, and Joseph. Many a young heart, including grandkids and nieces, will remember him as an amazing story reader and was often found telling stories through song. Leonard married Sofia in 1984, and they lived together in Centre Hall, Pennsylvania. Sofia will always remember Leonard as the sweetest husband, full of life and vitality: witty and with a great sense of humor. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother.

Amongst his many accomplishments in life, Leonard was an Emeritus Professor in Fuel and Mineral Engineering in the Pennsylvania State University until he retired in 1996, and was passionate about affecting the most positive change in people. After retirement from PSU, Leonard became a visiting Professor in the United Kingdom, Holland, Chile, Canada, South Africa and Australia. Len was honored with several awards including: the Antoine M. Gauding Award of the Society of Mining Engineers in 1983, and the Percy W. Nicholls Award of the AIME-ASME in 1987.

Leonard loved animals, especially his dogs, enjoyed traveling, was an avid reader and enjoyed listening to music. His neighbors and others will remember Leonard walking the dogs around the area, regardless of the weather. It was a social event for both him and his beloved dogs. But it was family and friends that meant the most to Len. He remembered his family, students, colleagues and friends around the world with such love. His students from literally all around the globe will remember him with much fondness. Len lived and loved well and he showed us all an example of how to do so in the ledger of his daily life.

Leonard’s family will hold a celebration of life at a later date.

His family would like to express gratitude to the personal care staff at The Oaks in Pleasant Gap and Eagle Valley Personal Care Home in Milesburg for their excellent care and attention they gave to Leonard and the compassion they showed to Sofia as well.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc 228 S. Pennsylvania Ave., PO Box 579, Centre Hall, PA 16828. An online guest book can be signed or condolences to the family available at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com.