Obituary of Richard Austin

Rick Austin, a life-long resident of Puyallup, Washington passed away March 20, 2024 after a short, courageous battle with cancer.

Born to Harry and Norma Austin, February 04, 1955, he attended Puyallup schools, graduating from Puyallup High School in 1973.

After high school Rick attended GRCC before graduating from the University of Washington School of Pharmacy in 1978. In 1976 while at the UW he began an internship at Nicholson’s Pharmacy in Sumner and upon graduation became a full-time pharmacist there. In 1983, he became co-owner of Nicholson’s Pharmacy and for 47 years he dedicated his life to serving the health needs of the Sumner community.

Rick and wife Teresa (Baginski) married in 1982 and together raised three children, Greg, Scott and Angela. A proud Dad, he was an even prouder Papa to his four grandchildren, Nolan, Averi, Porter and Cohen.

Outside his pharmacist role, Rick enjoyed trips to Sunriver, Hawaii, DC, Cooperstown, and UW Bowl games. He had a love for music, biking, books, the Mariners, Seahawks and especially the UW Huskies. A season ticket holder since college, UW Football and tailgating were family events in the fall.

Rick is survived by his wife Teresa; sons Greg (April) Austin and Scott (Ashli) Austin; daughter, Angela Austin; grandchildren, Nolan, Porter, Averi and Cohen Austin; sister Margaret Dovey; brothers Jim (Kay) Austin and Bob (Pixie) Austin.

A compassionate, humble, hard working man, Rick, was a great husband, father, papa, brother, son, uncle and community member. He will be missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held March 30, 2024 at Farm12 Event Center, Puyallup, WA from 3-6 pm.

Donations can be made to UW School of Pharmacy, Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition, Sumner Food Bank or charity of your choice.