Michael David Austing, 77, of New Philadelphia, Ohio, passed away on June 3, 2026.

He was born on February 13, 1949, in Dayton, Ohio, to the late Gilbert Louis Bernard Austing and Fern Lorraine (Springer) Austing.

Mike was a Vietnam Veteran serving in the United States Army from 1967 to 1981. He was a German Linguist and was extremely proud of being a Military Policeman.

On October 28, 1972, Michael married Diane V. (Welch) Austing, whom he met through a “Letter to Ann Landers.” He always referred to Diane as his “Mail Order Bride.”

After his military service, Mike dedicated many years of service as an Auto Damage Appraiser with Ohio Mutual Insurance Group before retiring.

Mike was a life member of Vietnam Veterans of America and the National Rifle Association (NRA). He also served as President of the 42nd Military Police Group Customer Reunion Association and was a member of the Military Police Regimental Association.

Mike loved taking in the sites in the United States and was awe struck by the Grand Canyon, but his favorite place was the Smokey Mountains.

He had a great sense of wanting to help everyone. Mike was a very kind and gentle man with very strong principles.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Diane V. Austing; his sons, Eric (Cynthia) Austing and Jason (Colleen) Austing; his loving sisters, Marcia (Jerry) and Marilyn (Ron); a very special friend, Charlie; and his “adopted” granddaughter, Morgan Myer-Barron. He will always be loved and missed.

A memorial service will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 beginning at 11:30 a.m.