Harold C. Augustin

Rochester: died peacefully at the home of loving family members at age 96 on Saturday, May 23, 2015. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, June, and son, Harold ‘Skip’ Augustin, Jr. Harold was born on September 20, 1918 in Rochester, New York. He graduated from Madison High School in 1936, and went on to assist his father in running a lithographic trade shop while simultaneously beginning his long career at the Rochester Products Division of General Motors. In 1943, he enlisted in the US Army and served as a draftsman in Fort MacArthur, California. After his service, he returned to his career at GM until retiring in 1981. Harold married Marie ‘June’ Volkmar May 17, 1943. They were devoted parents to their son, Skip, who was born with cerebral palsy. During their lifetime, Harold and June were tireless advocates for Skip and countless other children with cerebral palsy. Staunch opponents of institutionalizing children with disabilities, Harold and June helped to found CP Rochester, an organization dedicated to serving the needs of all children with love and respect. Harold designed and repaired adaptive equipment, maintained facilities, and lobbied for disability rights and funding in both Albany and Washington. The Augustin Children’s Center is named in memory of Skip, and in honor of Harold and June’s philanthropic contributions. In 2014, Harold was honored as CP Rochester’s ‘Humanitarian of the Year.’ Harold is survived by many loving family members, including Janet & Donald Tedesco, the Andrychuk family, William & Ursula Schmirl, and many dear friends. A special thank you to Dr. Mary Mathew and her staff for their exceptional care of the elderly. Harold’s visitation will be Tuesday, May 26th 6-8 PM at Vay-Schleich & Meeson Funeral Home, 1075 Long Pond Road, Greece Chapel. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, May 27th, 10:00AM at Peace of Christ Parish at St. Ambrose Church, 25 Empire Boulevard. Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Harold’s name to CP Rochester Augustin Children’s Center or Foodlink. For more information and to sign Harold’s online guestbook, visit www.MeesonFamily.com Harold was the life of the party and an eternal optimist. His response to life’s challenges: ‘It’s all part of growing up’ or to those reflecting on troubles: ‘You better start drinking Manhattans.’ Saying good-bye was always followed with ‘Behave.’ And the best: ‘I’ve had a beautiful life.’ Well said, Harry. You will be missed.