Austin Cronk

CRONK, Austin Allison. November 21, 1927 - January 4, 2018. With heavy hearts and great sadness, we announce the passing of Austin Allison Cronk, 90, of Huntsville, Ontario on January 4, 2018 in Bracebridge, Ontario. Born in Parham, Ontario on November 21, 1927, to parents Lawson Burton Cronk and Janett Emily Allison, Austin was predeceased by siblings Lyle Cronk and Isabella Smith. Austin was lucky enough to meet and fall in love with his partner in crime, Loretta Cronk (nee Ruxton), they were married in 1953. He was a loving father to his sons, Alan (Linda), Lyle (Byrna), Bryan (Diane), and Mike (Gayle), fiercely proud grandfather to Ezra, Sani, Brianne, Julianna and Rebecca, doting great-grandfather to 6 beautiful great-grandchildren, a caring and supportive uncle to many and a generous friend. An avid learner and ambitious student, Austin was a great collector of educational paperwork, graduating from Teachers College in Peterborough, Industrial Arts School in Toronto and then receiving a Bachelor of Arts from Queen's University and a Master of Education from University of Ottawa. His love for learning fueled his love for teaching and guidance, a career he pursued with vigour. As the much respected guidance counsellor at Huntsville High School before retiring after 33 years, Austin was a surrogate father and fierce advocate for his students, lending a warm shoulder, a compassionate ear or sage advice for whoever needed it most. He was an active community member as a Boy Scout leader, volunteer with the Heart & Stroke Society and a member of the Masonic Lodge. He and his sons shared a love for the great outdoors and he spent a great deal of time out at the bush property. Austin, Dad, Uncle Austin, Grandpa, Da, Great Grandpa, G-Da - as you leave this world, please know how much you are loved and that we will forever miss your warm smile, often repeated but always much-enjoyed tales of times past, your "punny" jokes, bedtime stories, love and constant support. There was no such thing as a quick trip to the grocery store for Austin, as he couldn't make it through without exchanging a fond memory or kind word with a former student or friend, and that is truly a testament to his character and legacy. For those wishing to honour Austin with a Memorial Donation, please make donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. As an alternative, in celebration of this kind and gentle soul, consider passing on an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness knowing it would bring a smile to his face.