Austin Avery

Port Ewen Austin Martin Avery of Agnes St. died, Sunday, March 19, 2012. He was 92. He was born in Connelly, a son of the late Martin Francis and Helene Schriber Avery. Mr. Avery attended a one-room schoolhouse, graduating from eighth grade, went on to Kingston High School for two years, leaving school to help his family during the depression. He worked for a butcher for ten cents an hour, then, worked for the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) doing roadwork and building retaining walls. At eighteen, he worked in the boatyards and Hercules Powder company. When the war broke out, Mr. Avery joined the Army Air Force. While in the service, he obtained his GED, became a crew chief, flying B29 bombers. He flew 100 missions. He was a member of the 404th Fighter group and the 506th Fighter Squadron, serving in Europe (Ardennes, Normandy, Northern France and Rhineland.) For his heroic efforts, he received the African-Middle Eastern Service medal, the Belgian Fourragre, the Croix de Guerre with Palm, both Bronze and Silver Stars, American and European Medals, and the Victory Medal. In 1945, he was honorably discharged from the service with the rank of Staff Sergeant. After the war, Mr. Avery became involved in the construction business, putting up pre-fabs for the returning veterans. In addition, he became an inspector for the FHA. He continued operating his own construction company, building over 300 homes (including his own,) until the late 1970's. Mr. Avery had many interests, which led him to co-own a gas station and operate a small engine repair service. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. Mr. Avery was a life long member of the V.F.W. In the 1980's Mr. Avery worked for the Department of Social Services. From 1987 to 1994 he worked as the building inspector for the town of Esopus, retiring when he lost his eyesight. Mr. Avery is predeceased by his wife, Edna Schupp, son, Gerard, a daughter, Mary Ellen, (deceased as an infant,) and Austin M. "Ike" Jr. died in 2007, one brother Francis "Whitey" Avery and one sister Eleanor Mendock. He leaves his friend and companion, Pauline Simon. A private graveside service will be conducted at the Ulster County Veterans section in New Paltz Cemetery.