Austin T. Field, age 95, of Stratford, died peacefully on Sunday, December 30, 2018, in the comfort of his home, with his loving family by his side. Known by family and friends as "Ozzie," he was the beloved husband of the late Barbara Conine Field.
Born in upstate New York in the small town of Ilion, he was the son of the late Thomas and Louise Field. He called both Milford and Stratford his hometown at various points throughout his lifetime.
Austin led an incredible life that took him across many corners of the world. He served in the U.S. Air Force in the Pacific theater during World War II. After the war ended and back in the States, he pursued an education at Springfield College and achieved a degree in Physical Education. Austin shifted totally away from a career in the education field to one in the banking industry. He enjoyed a long and distinguished executive career, working for several significant financial institutions, including Bankers Trust in New York City. One of his many highlights included participating in the early computer and digital transformation of a multitude of bank operations in the 70's.
Austin retired in the early 80's and enjoyed pursuing many passions, including traveling the world with his wife Barbara by land, sea and air. They experienced many countries together, especially the European Continent. He even enjoyed a solo safari in Africa.
His love of the outdoors drove his interest in all things nature. He hunted across the Northeast and fished everywhere that he could dip a line. He'd surf cast for striped bass along the shores of Block Island, trolled for bluefish on Long Island Sound and won many fishing tournaments with the Stratford Boat Owners Association. He found solitude in long walks in the woods in various Connecticut counties and watching ospreys nesting on the Housatonic through his spotting scope. He was a talented carver and created birds and ducks on long winter days. He was happiest when he was one with nature.
He loved vegetable gardening and prided himself in growing outstanding tomatoes. His lawn was always the envy of others – meticulously cut and trimmed. He took pride in everything he did, including always fixing things himself and never calling a handyman.
Sports held a special place for him. He enjoyed skiing, both downhill and cross-country. Austin was an avid golfer who played until the age of 92. The New York Football Giants and the NFL owned his Sunday's in the fall. In the winter, his attention was focused entirely on the UCONN Lady Huskies as they were "his girls." In his younger years, he coached various youth sports teams.
Austin is survived by his loving children, William Field and his wife Arlene of Monroe and Susan Brayton of Watertown. He will be missed by his beloved grandchildren Robert Field and his wife Kaitlin, Elizabeth Brayton and Ryan Brayton. He treasured the happy times and close relationships that they all individually shared with Grandpa. There was a special place in his heart for all of them. He lived long enough to be a great grandfather – "GGPa" to William, Bridget and Hannah Field.
Friends may greet the family on Saturday, January 5, 2019 from 10:00am to 12:00pm at the Dennis & D'Arcy – Abriola & Kelemen Funeral Home, 2611 Main Street, Stratford. A Funeral Service will take place at 12:00pm following visitation officiated by Fr. Paul Jacobson. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, please keep Austin in your prayers and make time for your family and friends. To offer the family online condolences please visit www.dennisanddarcy.