Pearl Austgen

Pearl Austgen, (nee Brockman) age 92, of Vero Beach, Florida/Dyer, IN, passed away peacefully at St. Anthony Hospice on November 18, 2010. She is survived by her loving children, Patricia (Emil) Perrotta of Chesterton, Dennis (Linda) Austgen of Munster, adoring grandchildren, Theresa Austgen of Bloomington, Robert (Holly) Austgen of Indianapolis and Katharine Austgen of Chicago, Sister-in-law Lee Picano (Austgen) of Ft. Pierce, Florida, numerous nieces and nephews and many close friends in Vero Beach and Indiana, all who cherish greatly the time spent with Pearl. She was preceded in Death by her husband Robert, parents Minnie (Russell) and Henry Brockman, sisters, Helen Hanish/Halton and Gladys (Clifford) Giese, and niece, Carol Dorn. Pearl was born in Brunswick, In. and attended grade school for eight years in a one-room schoolhouse. She then attended Dyer High School where she met her beloved husband and soul mate of 64 years, Robert. After High School she attended Business College in Hammond. Pearl and Bob were married on June 22, 1940, the day they both turned 22. Pearl worked side by side with her husband in the family business, Austgen Hardware, until their retirement. Throughout those years, Pearl was active in the Dyer community being a member of the Dyer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, the Dyer Lady Lions, and St. Joseph Church. in Vero Beach, Fl. Pearl was an active member of St. Helen Church where she helped tutor students of the school. Although Bridge was her game of choice and one she was quite proficient in, she particularly enjoyed her Friday night “Poker Gals” get together, and the Austgen family summer Euchre tournaments, where everyone wanted to be her partner. Pearl set an example for everyone on how to live your life. She was always caring, giving and always enjoying each and every day God gave her on this earth. In accordance with Pearls wishes, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday December 4, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Church, 440 Joliet St., Dyer, Indiana, with Rev. Terry Steffens officiating. Cremation prior to the service. Friends are invited to meet with the family at the church from 9:00 am until the time of services at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions to The Dyer Historical Society, One Town Square, Dyer, IN, or to St. Helen Church, 2085 Tallahassee Ave., Vero Beach, Fl. 32961, or The Hospice of your choice. Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN, in charge of arrangements.

Pearl Austgen

June 22, 1918 - November 18, 2010