Fern “Maurine” Austin, age 92, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in her hometown of Montpelier, Idaho.
Maurine was born on April 28, 1933, in Montpelier to Owen and Winnie Stephens where she was raised and educated. She graduated from Montpelier High School and remained a lifelong resident of the Bear Lake Valley.
On August 30, 1950, she married the love of her life, Dale Austin. Together, they shared nearly 65 years of wedded bliss until Dale’s passing in 2015. We can just imagine her smiling and saying to him now, “Be still, Dale.”
Maurine and Dale raised three sons: Stephen (Renee), Bradley, and Scott (Renet). She was blessed with eight grandchildren, along with many great and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her joy.
Maurine was truly the best grandma. She had many “adopted” grandchildren across the valley who often stopped by her home to try on jewelry, play with her many beloved cats, or simply sit and visit. She never let anyone leave empty-handed—whether with a small treasure, a can of Diet Pepsi, or a warm, loving squeeze. Running into Maurine at the store or church meant a heartfelt hug and a chat, which is why her trips often lasted hours—she wanted everyone to feel seen and loved.
She shared a very special bond with her grandchildren. No matter what challenges they faced, they always knew they could come home to Grandma’s open arms and unconditional love. We were truly lucky to have her for so long—long enough for her to watch of several her grandchildren become grandparents themselves.
Maurine was a devoted homemaker and well-known throughout the community as an Avon Lady for over 40 years. Fun, classy, and kind, she made friends wherever she went.
An avid reader, she loved books and was heartbroken during the COVID-19 pandemic when she couldn’t visit the library to borrow her usual stack of ten or more at a time.
In her later years, Maurine found great joy in singing with her group, The Mad Hatters—short for Mothers Against Dreary Days. She adored the color red, right down to her hair, and delighted in performing around the region. She frequently shared photos and stories about their events, always proud to show off their red-themed outfits and cheerful spirit.
She also enjoyed going to the Senior Center on Wednesday and Fridays where she was well taken care of and enjoyed going the last few years with her son Brad.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dale; her parents; three sisters and brothers in-law.
There will be a viewing on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Schwab-Matthews Mortuary from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. A graveside service will follow at 12:00 noon in the Liberty Cemetery.