Derik Michael Nolan Austin was killed on July 7, 2019 in a car accident. He died surrounded by first responders who arrived quickly and worked valiantly to save him. No one else was physically injured in the accident.
He was born June 21, 1983 in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. He was the first and only son of Robert (Bob) Austin and Deborah (Debbie) Austin, who gave him two sassy sisters, a strong work ethic, and an enduring love for the outdoors.
Derik spent his young adulthood in the South. After his house was destroyed in Hurricane Katrina, he returned to Helena.
An avid fisherman, Derik made his own jigs. He so adored the long sage-scented walks he took while hunting, that he nearly always managed to wait until the final day of hunting season to find success. He was a masterful game cook and a connoisseur of barbeque who enjoyed hosting loved ones around the smoker.
Derik married Elise Bailey in Helena on April 11, 2014. They had a daughter, Olivia, and a son, Chance. A devoted husband and father, Derik spent his free time introducing his kids to Montana’s natural beauty through trips to the woods, long dog walks, fishing and skiing.
Derik liked to fix things. He particularly enjoyed working on cars, but he also fixed appliances, furniture, and anything else broken that he could improve. If it wasn’t a computer, and Derik couldn’t fix it, it just might be beyond human repair. He recently spent an evening repairing the motorcycle of a stranger who broke down nearby, sending them safely home on a working bike.
Derik loved dogs, had a passion for rescuing them, and was a long-term donor to the Humane Society.
He also had a unique knack for noticing people, truly seeing them, and knowing just what to say to make them feel cared for and appreciated. His quick wit was a joy to those around him. Each of his loved ones has felt sharply the loss of his caring, his humor, and his near-constant smile.
Derik was preceded in death by his grandparents Robert and Georgia Austin, uncles Rocky Heckman and Danny Schenk, dear friends Josh and Gabriel, and his son Gabriel Roma Austin. He is survived by his wife Elise Austin, children Chance and Olivia, parents Bob and Debbie Austin, sisters Kassandra Austin and Tia (Dave) Corwin and nephew Mason, and grandparents Hugh and Vicki Jenks, along with numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
We are reminded, in his absence, the importance of loving those around us. Derik has taught us that one person’s caring can uplift an entire community of people. He is sorely missed.
A benefit and Celebration of Derik’s life will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at the Lewis and Clark Brewery Tap Room, 1517 Dodge Ave, Helena, MT 59601.
In lieu of flowers donations in Derik’s name are suggested to Valley Bank Austin Family Memorial Benefit Fund. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of Derik.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday July 16, 2019
Lewis & Clark Tap room
1517 Dodge Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday July 16, 2019
Lewis & Clark Tap room
1517 Dodge Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
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Steve Mosby says
Bobby and family so sorry to hear of your loss he was a great person and I always enjoyed visiting with him….. Steve and Jeri Mosby and family
Donnie says
I’ll remember him every time I tell folk that I’m “fine as frog hair”. He was one of my mentors. God love him.
Anne Bartsch says
I only knew Derik as a checker or greeter at Costco. It was impossible to see him and not be touched by his kindness, positivity, and sense of humor. He touched more people than I’m sure he ever knew.
Clara Wilson says
Derik was one of my favorites at Costco. His contagious smile always had me leaving the store with a little brighter day. And his kewpie doll curl was signature only to him. My heart goes out to his family. He will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege to come across his path.
Karin says
So true! Derek is just the nicest guy. Praying for his family and all of those close to him, he will be missed by many.
Terry kramer says
I remember Derik from him running around at the Helena gun club. Thru young adulthood where he already was mastering the shotgun. In recent years we would cross paths at Costco where he always went out of his way to say hello and share an outdoor story or two. What a pleasant young man! My heart is broken. Our thoughts an prayers are wit you Bob and Deb.
Terry and Sue Kramer
Wendie says
My heart goes out to Derik‘s family. I too only knew him from Costco. He was a kind, knowledgeable, and uplifting man. On a positive note, he passed those qualities on to many people. He will be truly missed.
Jamie Peterson says
Tia and family — I am so sorry for the loss of your wonderful brother, husband and son. I hope you will be comforted by his memory and the years spent together. May you find peace and comfort during this truly difficult time.
David Holshue says
BOB AND Deb so very sorry for your loss, my thoughts are with you through this tough time. Take care and stay strong.
Julie Massaro says
Bob and Deb (and family of Derik),
I was so saddened to see that Derik had passed away. He was one of my all-time-favorite employees at Costco. Always had such a positive, cheerful attitude no matter what he was doing. If he was checking, I didn’t care how many people he had in line…that’s where I was going! What a delightful soul. My heart goes out to you.
Deb, we worked together “all those years ago” at Bank of MT. Systems. I have such fond memories of you and the fun we had while working. My love to you.
Love and Prayers,
Julie
Cathy Huntley says
My husband & I only knew Derik through Costco. He was always so friendly & smiling! Not too long, as we were leaving Costco, my husband made a comment to me about how nice he was. Seeing him would just cheer you up! Please know the impact he had on complete strangers, we are so sorry for your loss.
AMANDA BUNCH says
My heart goes out to his family…… I just want to say a few words about my coworker for along time Derik Austin. Derik was such a creative witty man. I luved Derik for his happy funny attitude to everything. He luved working and doing thec best he could possibly. I knew that he luved his wife and kids beyond what u could imagine as well as the awesome beard shaping designs. We will miss Derik always, and he will be forever in our thoughts. May God comfort anyone who is hurting in his loss. Prayers are out there for everyone!!!! Luv Bunches… coworkers!!!!!