Doug Austin letters

The Town Crier reached out to its readers to ask for tributes to Doug Austin, our Mr. Idyllwild, a man who showered us all with love and kindness, and a passion for literacy. His Dickensian voice and presence emceed many events, particularly the Idyllwild Summer Concert Series and the Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Sadly for them and for us, due to health problems, he and his wife, Pat, recently moved off the Hill, leaving a hole that can never be filled.
We allowed this second week for tributes since the first week had a short deadline because of the holiday.

Doug:
I miss our Wednesday mornings together. I miss your calming, caring weekly benedictions; your consistent commitment to “doing the right thing.” You certainly represent Rotary in the highest light; you live the Four Way test. I will also miss trading sesquipedalian words with you.
With the greatest admiration,
Jeffrey Cohen

Our Victorian gentleman in his high-top hat who presented our young Dickens scholars with prizes; wandered the aisles of the Harvest Festival; dressed up locals in Victorian garb for the tree lighting; and read “The Night Before Christmas” to us all; left our little town, never to be replaced.
We’re going to miss you, Doug. Thom and Barbara Wallace

The Associates of the Idyllwild Arts Foundation thank you for all you have done for our community and the Associates. In honor of your community spirit, we are pleased to present an “Honorary Lifetime Membership to the Associates of Idyllwild Arts” to you. You may be off the Hill but we will never forget you.
Best of luck on this new chapter of your life. 

Associates of the Idyllwild Arts Foundation

Dear Doug:
As I write this message to you, I have tears in my eyes. Every time I met you in town, I left your presence feeling enriched and lifted up. Your gifts to this community will never be matched. We already miss you.
Take care, dear gentleman, and know that you are loved.
Margaret Mary Leusch
We first knew Doug as a part-time preacher of invocations and a thespian, later seeing and hearing him everywhere in Idyllwild as Dickens, Santa Claus and Falstaff with a hint of Dr. Pangloss. Beneath all the public personas lurks the rarest of creatures: a truly decent man. Idyllwild is a better place because of Doug.
Tom and Kathy Kluzak

Dear Doug:
We are, each of us, better human beings for knowing you and hearing your gentle, kind words always.
Jean Stein

Doug:
Thank you, dear Doug, for your years of service as “Mr. Idyllwild.” Your upbeat personality has been an inspiration to us. We really miss you and Pat in our neighborhood.
Be safe and know that you are loved and missed.
Love to you both,
Mike and Margaret

Doug Austin was a special man who supported the community of Idyllwild wholeheartedly.
The Idyllwild Area Historical Society (IAHS) was just one organization which benefited from his generosity.
We will truly miss his sense of humor, wonderful voice and many talents.
Our very best wishes to both Doug and Pat.
Sincerely, 

Marlene Pierce
IAHS Vice-President

Sir Douglas:
There is a huge void on our mountain. You are sorely missed!
Babz and David Cutter

Doug Austin supported the start of Temple Har Shalom of Idyllwild (THS) 6 years ago first with his heart by encouraging the founders, and then, financially. He also gave of his time and significant talents to strengthen the Board with a Board retreat. Doug you are a true mensch. Wishing you and Pat shalom — peace.

With love and gratitude
from THS
Sir Doug:
No finer gentleman has ever graced the eyes of the women of San Jacinto. Their spirits will be lifted and they will feel more beautiful with each glorious chance meeting.
Our hearts and souls will forever miss you, O Kind Man!
Susan Lydon

Dear Doug:
You are a true gentleman and gentle man. You make people feel so good about themselves — a rare talent to have.
My friend, you will be sorely missed.
Take care,
Inge and Gordon Austerman

Doug:
You have been an amazing presence in Idyllwild! From Rotary to promoting literacy in the schools to Shakespeare performing in plays and reading the “Night Before Christmas,” to wowing every lady and man with your complimenting praise, nobody does it better. You are the true model of a gentleman.
Patrick Reitz

Doug:
You are missed dearly as my “adopted father.” You have been the official and true Master of Ceremonies for all the major musical and theatrical events that have been key to our Hill. Praying that you are blessed as much as you have blessed us and especially me.
Christina Reitz