R.I.P. Tom Austin
 

Don't know how many folks here ever met Tom. I met him as a result of this forum way back when I posted a WTS for a friend's 1928 Thompson. Met him in person at Big Sandy when he met up to inspect the 1928.

Saw him over the course of 7-8 yrs at the shoot. He was a true gentleman who went WAY Out of his way if he thought you needed his help, even flying in unannounced from Tx on his own dime if he thought he could help.

Tom died last Friday. The guy who messaged me had no further details, and a search for obits was negative.

I'm sure that all those who knew him are saddened, and have lost a true friend.

Never met him, never knew him, but his reputation was good. Another of our ranks goes on to wait for the rest of us.
Ron

Yes, ... I doubt that anyone here ever met him in-person.

I'm using this platform to eulogize a man I admired.

He must have passed quickly, noting that he had posted on this forum 2 weeks ago. However, when you consider what he did for a living, it could be more insidious in this day and age.

Tom was in his mid-80s. He was a retired army officer with an Infantry background. He was a Lawyer practicing in Austin Tx. His specialty was as a Criminal Defense/Public Defender. He had a LOT of hairy stories to tell about "Clients", hence my insidious reference.

I don't know anything about him having a family, just his interest in exotic firearms and walking his dogs.

Tom was the kind of guy you WISH you had as a friend close by in your life. I will miss him !

:cheers: