Mr. Darwin F. VanAuken, 78, passed away unexpectedly late Friday evening at his residence. A service will be private at the convenience of the family.
Darwin was born November 24th, 1942, in Taberg, N.Y., the son of Lewis and Mabel Stroup VanAuken. He graduated from Rome Free Academy.
On February 6th, 1971, he married the former Linda Roller, in Auburn, N.Y.
Darwin was a butcher in his early years at Loblaws in Rome, N.Y., he then was transferred to the Grand Union in Clayton in May of 1973, until its closing, then a number of years at the Super Duper in Ogdensburg, and retiring from the P & C in Watertown. After his retirement he worked for a little at the Walton Street Market in Alexandria Bay.
His wife and he were members and very active in the Omar Fishers Landing Methodist Church. He was a former Chief of the Fishers Landing Fire Department, and he was a former Mason. He enjoyed fishing, watching the Yankees, listing to country music, especially Johnny Cash, being with his family, and traveling the United States and especially going on cruises.
Surviving besides his wife Linda, are his two daughters, Kelly VanAuken, and her fiancé Don Shaber of Dewitt, and Tracy (William) Goodwin of Maryland; three grandchildren, Christopher, Zachary, and Phoebe; one step grandson, Noel Burnett; nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by two sisters and one brother.
Donations can be made to the Volunteer Transportation Center, 24685 NYS Route 37, Watertown, N.Y. 13601.
Frederica & Jon Webb
Dear Linda and family:
We are so sorry to read of Dusty’s passing. God saw his frailty and called him home! May your good memories from years ago warm your hearts and give you comfort!
God bless you all.
Sincere sympathy
Freddie and Jon
Steven Roller
Very nice, kind man whom I had the pleasure of calling him my brother-in-law. Good husband, father, grandfather and neighbor. A friend to all. Rest in peace Dusty. Steve Roller
Kevin
I had the pleasure of driving him to his dialysis and I always loved hearing his stories of his family. He was a great man.
Kevin Orvis
Condolences to both Linda and family. Lots of fond memories.
Eleanor
Dusty was such a good father and husband. He will be missed. My prayers are with my sister and her family. Love you
Nancy Samson
I have so many memories of my Uncle Dusty that I treasure. Fishing with a bamboo pole at Fishers Landing. Watching him run to a fire in the middle of the night. Talking to him about Jesus, and so many more. He loved and lived life to the fullest always with a smile and a laugh and a good prank now and then. Nancy and John
Sherrita Rogers
Our deepest condolences to the Van Auken family in the lost of their dear Dusty. His daughter, Tracy, is a dear friend of mine and I know how much he will be missed. We thank God for no more pain and that he is finally at peace. Sherrita Rogers & Family
Donna Taylor
Sending thoughts and prayers to Linda and girls and all that loved him. Dusty was a great person with a fantastic personality and he will be missed.