POUGHKEEPSIE, New York – The Marist Athletics Department is mourning the loss of Bill Austin, who passed away on April 14 at the age of 80.
 
Austin was hired as the director and head coach of the Marist men's rowing program from 1968-76. He was responsible for the recruitment of numerous talented rowers and won the Dad Vail Regatta in 1972. In 1974, Austin began the process that led to the formation of the Marist women's rowing program. He also worked in Alumni Relations and the Development Office and served on the United States Olympic Rowing Committee.
 
"Bill Austin will have a rightful place in the annals of rowing history at Marist College," Marist director of rowing/head women's coach Tom Sanford said. "Bill brought great energy, commitment, love for, and inspired loyalty to the rowing program here at Marist. His crews were fiercely competitive and represented Marist well wherever they were racing. As a local businessman, Bill continued to be a loyal supporter of our entire program. It was my pleasure to know Bill and his family as I grew up in the local rowing community and have continued on as a coach here at Marist."  
 
Bob Missert, Marist Class of '79, was one of several outstanding rowers Austin brought to Poughkeepsie. According to Missert, Austin would drive to high schools throughout the Northeast in search of rowers who could enrich the Marist program. Missert's recruitment to Marist started because of a high school visit by Austin, and after an enjoyable experience on campus, made his commitment to the program.
 
"All of our lives have been truly enriched because of Bill's selfless dedication to Marist College Rowing," Missert said via the Alumni and Friends of Marist Rowing Facebook page.
 
Following his time at Marist, Austin continued to make an impact in the Hudson Valley through philanthropy and community service. He was one of the founders of Allsport Racquet and Fitness. He converted numerous health clubs he purchased in New York and Connecticut to Gold's Gyms and was inducted into the Gold's Gym Hall of Fame in 2016. For his impact in the industry, he was known as the "Godfather of Fitness." He served on several boards and committees locally. He was honored with the Marist President's Award and named Family of the Year by Family Services in 2016. Austin remained a supporter of Marist College throughout the remainder of his life.
 
Austin thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors, especially skiing, hunting, and fishing, as well as time spent with friends and family. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jane; his daughter Kim and husband Dave; his son Billy and wife Becky; and three grandchildren – Kyra, Austin, and Beatrix.
 
Calling hours will be held on Friday, April 21 from 2-5:30 p.m. at William G. Miller & Son Funeral Home at 371 Hooker Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603. Following calling hours, the family will be hosting a gathering at Farmers and Chefs Restaurant in Poughkeepsie.