Margaret M. (Wachs) Austin

Margaret Austin, known lovingly to most as Marge or Nana, passed away peacefully on the evening of Thursday, August 7, 2025, surrounded by those who loved her most. She was 85 years old.

Marge was born on New Year’s Day in 1940 to Alfred and Myrtle (Walsdorf) Wachs. Raised in Mishawaka, she grew up attending St. Joseph and St. Monica Catholic Schools, where her lifelong devotion to her Catholic faith began. She graduated from Mishawaka High School in 1957. On April 29, 1961, Marge married the love of her life, Floyd Dwight Austin, at St. Monica’s Catholic Church. Together, they were blessed with three children: Scott Austin of Mishawaka, Denise (Gary) Weaver of Granger, and Christine Tobolski of Mishawaka. Their time together was brief as Floyd passed away from cancer at the age of 31. Despite the heartache, she poured her unconditional love into raising their children. She later pursued her passion for helping others by studying healthcare at Ivy Tech. For over 30 years, Marge served as a surgical technician at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.

Every December, Marge’s home sparkled with twinkling lights, nativity scenes, and festive decor. Christmas wasn’t just a season, it was an obsession, and she loved every minute of it. She also enjoyed skiing, dressing up for Halloween, and cooking meals for those she cherished.

Marge is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Floyd; her parents, Alfred and Myrtle Wachs; her siblings, James Wachs, Doris (Musary) Wachs, and Thomas Wachs.

She is survived by her siblings: Charles (Rose Marie) Wachs, Virginia (Val) Nawrocki-Walters, John (Gail) Wachs, and brother-in-law John Musary, her three children, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

She also leaves behind her three beloved kitties, who were her constant companions and brought her comfort and joy.

Marge’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a Rosary service starting at 6:00 PM at Hahn Funeral Home, 505 West 8th Street, Mishawaka.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Bavo Catholic Church, 501 West 7th Street, Mishawaka.

Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery, where Marge will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Floyd.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Bavo Church.

With heartfelt appreciation, the family wishes to thank Caring Cove Hospice, Judy Weaver, and Lily (Weaver) Pasternak, for their time, tender care, and compassion during Marge’s final weeks.

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