Austin David Thackston

Austin David Thackston, 20, of St. Joseph, passed away Saturday, July 12, 2014 as the result of an accident. Celebration of Life Services will be held 11:30 A.M. Thursday, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 until 11:30 A.M. Thursday, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to “ I Am The Greatest Project” which educates youth through public art & education at ARS Gallery.  Those wishing to sign Austin’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Austin was born October 5, 1993 in St. Joseph to Michael & Mary (Minty) Thackston.  He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 2012 and was currently enrolled at Lake Michigan College MTEC program as a CNC apprentice, scheduled to graduate in August.  Austin was a passionate artist and volunteered at the Anna Russo-Sieber Gallery in Benton Harbor.  Growing up Austin was an avid soccer and baseball player but his true loves were snowboarding and skateboarding. He could often be found at the St. Joseph Skate Park. Austin attended the First Church of God’s youth programs with many of his childhood friends. He loved animals and cherished the time spent with his many friends.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Austin is survived by his mother & step-father, Mary & Thomas Ives of St. Joseph; his siblings-Ashley Fanslau of Naples, FL, Peter Ives of Bridgman, Anne Ives of Kalamazoo, Julie (Jarid) Wogoman of Benton Harbor, Michael Thackston of Benton Harbor; grandparents, Helen Deliyanne of Carmel, IN, Mark & Anna Thackston of Maryland, Marianne Ives of Texas; and numerous aunts, uncles & cousins.  He was preceded in death by his father Michael David Thackston in 2010.