Richard Stanley August

Richard Stanley August, 95, of Marietta, Georgia, passed away peacefully (but reluctantly) on February 7, 2023. Richard was born in Griswold, Connecticut, the son of Polish immigrants, Michael and Catherina Augustynowski. He was one of 6 children and leaves behind his one surviving sibling, Chester Augustynowski, of Jewett City. Known by friends as ‘Augie’, ‘Gus’, or Dick…his charm, sense of humor and sharp mind remained active and engaged until his final days. After high school, Dick enlisted in the United States Army. He was later accepted at West Point, but opted instead to pursue a civilian career. However, still wanting to serve his country, he enlisted in the Army Reserve, eventually retiring a Lieutenant Colonel. Dick was a graduate of Georgia Institute of Technology where he received both his undergraduate and Masters Degrees. While attending GA Tech, Dick met his lovely, southern wife, Edith Hale, of Kossuth, Mississippi. Despite more than 60 years of living in the South, Dick’s Northern accent still gave away his New England Roots. He also cherished his Polish origin and frequently enjoyed eating piorgies, galumpkis, and Polish borscht on football Sundays. Dick’s career began with 15 years at Lockheed Martin followed by more than 30 years with Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, where he retired a Senior Vice President. Even at age 95, Dick followed the stock Market reports daily, faithfully doing his ‘homework’ to help friends and family stay well-informed. Much to the chagrin of his wife and daughters, Dick would take fashion cues from no one – priding himself on his budget suits, polyester slacks, and weekend ‘dungarees’ - complete with elastic waistbands. But like most men of the ‘Greatest Generation’, Dick got a lot of things right. He knew the value of a penny, rejected fancy cars and designer clothes for ensuring his children received quality educations. He instilled in them a strong belief in the importance of hard work and the essentialness of generosity. In 2017, Dick was preceded in death by his only son, Richard S. August, Jr. Survivors include his devoted wife of 72 years, Edie August; daughters, Linda August Vrooman (Mark), Patti Pendergrast (David), and Sandra August. Dick also leaves behind 4 grandsons; Chad Pendergrast, Travis Vrooman (Rachel), Joseph Pendergrast (Courtney), Lane Vrooman (Inga) and 8 cherished Great Grandchildren…Olivia, Abigail, Aubrey, Jolie Mae, Huck, Atti, Ollie, and Elias. An avid lover of animals Dick was also predeceased by a host of beloved pets, all of whom will be awaiting him on the rainbow bridge. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite animal rescue organization or honor Dick by donating blood with the Red Cross – as he did regularly throughout his life. A visitation will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Mayes Ward Funeral Home in Marietta, Georgia. A private burial will take place at Georgia National Cemetery with military honors.

Richard Stanley August

November 4, 1927 - February 7, 2023