OWASCO | Joseph James Augustine, 64, of Owasco, died at home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, Oct. 7, 2012, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Joe was born in Oneida, on April 11, 1948, the son of Joseph and Jean Ziarkowski Augustine Sr. He graduated from Oneida Senior High School in 1967, and was a member of the varsity football team. He majored in political science and pre-law at Hiram Scott College, Scotts Bluff, Neb., and was a member of Phi Lambda Phi fraternity, and received a football scholarship. He also attended Mt. Scenario College, Ladysmith, Wisc. Joe married the former Shelly Matteson on Oc. 16, 1976, in Oneida. They resided in the Auburn area since 1984. Joe was employed in the building materials industry for more than 25 years, most recently at T&K Lumber in Elbridge. He was a loyal fan of the Cleveland Browns, and avidly followed Syracuse University basketball and football. Joe is survived by his wife Shelly; their sons, Michael (Christina Wiggins) Augustine and Matthew (Danielle Szozda) Augustine; the light of his life, grandson, Zackery Augustine, and two very special girls, Lily Vernon, and Makenna Jones. Also surviving is his mother, Jean Augustine; brother, Thomas Augustine; sister and brother-in-law, Gloria and the Rev. Wayne Grow; niece, Andrea (Ray) Gilman, and their children, Dylan, Katie, Tori and Lexi; nephew, Geoffrey (Jessica) Grow, and children, Mattie and Cody; nephew, Jonathan (Erin) Grow; special cousins, Joan Kingsley Piorun and Joyce (Leo) Ostberg; dear friends, Carl Vernon and several cousins. He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Augustine Sr. The family wishes to extend deepest thanks and gratitude to Barb, Amy, Jackie and everyone at Hospice. Friends are invited to call from 4 to 6:45 p.m. Wednesday at the Plis Funeral Home, 220 State St. A service will be held at 6:45 p.m., following calling hours. Private graveside services will be in Oneida Castle Cemetery.
