Oscar “Wayne” Austring
Posted Jul 15, 2026 | 8:18 AM

Oscar “Wayne” Austring was peacefully received into the arms of his Lord and Savior on July 9th, 2026, as family said their goodbyes on Earth. He was a dearly beloved brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend. It was poignant that the song playing softly in the background was the old gospel song, “I’ll Fly Away”! He was freed from years of disabilities.
Wayne was born in Swift Current, SK on March 20, 1940, to Ole and Alvina Austring of Stewart Valley, SK. He shared his entry into the world with twin sister, Oriole; childhood years were spent there with his nine siblings. Wayne joined Klemke Construction Co., a road building workforce, in his teen years. In 1969 he married Gayle Sampson. They resided in Fox Creek and Ft. Simpson before moving to Red Deer in 1972 where he and his brother-in-law started ‘Radio Shack’ in Parkland Mall, Red Deer. After various other ventures, including building three subdivisions in Red Deer County and several homes, he returned to his road building talents as a foreman with North Side Construction.
Wayne was a free spirit, generous, passionate about life, a lover of music, playing his violin accompanying Gayle on the piano. He was creative, an encourager, enthusiastic and a loyal friend. He loved family, the simple pleasures of family events, coffee on the deck’ and jogging. Wayne and Gayle traveled extensively throughout their thirty-six years of marriage. He was a strong, positive influence in the formative years of the lives of his nephews and nieces. He continued to enjoy close relationships with them and their families. He always enthusiastically responded when asked for help. He was Gayle’s encourager and cheering section.
Wayne suffered a debilitating aneurysm in 2005 which left him with right side paralysis and severe aphasia. When Gayle passed in 2006, he determinedly forged ahead and lived independently for years. His unwavering steadfast Christian faith was a testimony to others. He kept a supply of ‘Purpose Driven Life’ books and ‘God of Wonders’ DVDs to hand out to others. When he was unable to speak, this kind act explained everything … even to hitch hikers that he picked up on the highway! He was an inspiring example of constant resilience and patience.
Wayne is survived and lovingly remembered by sisters Marie, Oriole (Don) Stewart, Dianne (Wil) Ens, Dorothy Regier, Glen, Jerome (Eva), Joanne Chanig and their extended families as well as sisters-in-law Melba Veer and Virley Gulbransen and their families; cousins and friends.
Wayne was predeceased by his parents, sisters Juverna, Arlene (Burnette) Olsen, brothers-in law John Regier, Brian Veer and Vern Gulbransen, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.
We would like to thank and commend the caring staff at Bethany CollegeSide for their loving and ongoing attention to Wayne when he moved there in September 2025.
A private celebration of Wayne’s life will be held at a later date with interment with his wife in Amisk Park Cemetery, Amisk, AB.
Condolences to Wayne’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Wayne Austring” in the subject line.
Arrangements in care of
Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service
A locally owned cremation and funeral provider
serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta
587-876-4944
- Date : 2026-07-15
- Location : Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service Red Deer AB "Locally Owned"