Robert L. Austin Sr. Obituary (1930 - 2023)

Rider Down Bad Bob Austin April 10, 1930 - September 12, 2023 "Hold your loved ones up and remember them in their best moments, living their best lives, and forget the hardships, and their memories will endure forever. This is how I choose to honor my father, twisting the throttle on a Bultaco, the proper way to remember a legend." Sanford - Robert L. Austin Sr., affectionately known as "Bad Bob Austin," passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at the age of 93, at The Lodges Care Center in Springvale. He was born on April 10, 1930, the only child of the late Louis and Katherine (Fields) Austin in Sanford, where he grew up and attended local schools, ultimately graduating from Sanford High School. Bob proudly served as a "Seabee" in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1952. During his lifetime, he acquired a multitude of skills, making him a true jack-of-all-trades. He was a crane operator, owned and operated Austin Sporting Goods Store, Trailsport Motorcycle Store, and Bob Austin Excavation. In addition to these pursuits, he was a talented, self-taught carpenter and cabinetmaker. But Bob's true passion and legacy were dirt bikes. He had a deep love for motorcycles and took countless young men under his wing, introducing them to the thrill of racing and serving as a mentor. Affectionately known as "Bad Bob Austin," he had a magnetic personality and was a true people person. Bob was also an active member of the Masons, holding the title of Worshipful Master in 2014-2015 at Rising Star Lodge #429 A.F & A.M. He is preceded in death by two stepsons, Michael and Thomas Andrews. Survivors include his loving wife, Anne Austin, of Sanford; a daughter, Sandra Legere; a son, Robert "Chip" Austin Jr., both of Sanford; stepson James Andrews of North Carolina; grandchildren Erin and Nathan Legere, Brooke and Katherine Austin, and great-grandchildren Alex Guilbault and Codie Deering and great grandchildren Jasmine, Addilyn and Aaliyah. A gathering to celebrate Bob's extraordinary life will be held at a time to be announced. Arrangements are under the compassionate direction of Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale. To leave a message of condolence, please visit Bob's Remember Page. Bob's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him, and in the roar of the motorcycles he loved so dearly.