Austin Jon Park

Austin Jon Park lost his life tragically Saturday evening at his home in Smith Valley. He was 14. For those that had the privilege of knowing Austin, he was a young man that exemplified all of the merits of a well-rounded individual with the world ahead of him. An accomplished student at Smith Valley High School, Austin excelled in everything he did and looked forward to each new endeavor that life brought his way. From his avid role in the Future Farmers of America, to playing halfback and linebacker with the Smith Valley Bulldogs, Austin simply had a good time being a boy. He also played JV basketball and was looking forward to the upcoming season and of course, his favorite sport of all, track and field. More than anything, Austin enjoyed spending time with his friends and especially his family. His sister, Brooke, always could count on him for anything and to his parents, Jon and Molly Park, he was their utmost joy. From childhood friends to his adult peers, Austin had a sincerity and friendliness that was infectious to all those who had the honor of being part of a life that was taken all too soon. A native Nevadan and seventh generation Park, Austin is survived by his parents, Jon and Molly Park, sister Brooke Park, grandparents Bruce and Nancy Park, grandmother Sue Whittaker, grandparents Kathne and Mike Dowd, great grandmother Norma Gomes, and countless other loving family members.

A Rosary will be 7 p.m., Wednesday at St. Johns in Smith Valley. A community vigil will follow at 8 p.m. at the Smith Valley High School Gymnasium. Funeral will be 10 a.m., Thursday at St. Gall Catholic Church in Gardnerville with burial immediately following at Mottsville Cemetery. A reception to follow at St. Gall Church in the Pastoral Center. To leave a memory or condolence for the family of Austin visit www.austinjonpark.last-memories.com

Walton's Douglas County Mortuary is caring for the arrangements.