Thomas Augustyniak

Thomas Augustyniak passed away at his home in Lowell, Oregon, on May 12, 2026, at the age of 70, surrounded by his family. Throughout a long cancer journey, Tom met each day with strength, humility, and grace. With a lifelong interest in science, he chose to participate in a cancer treatment trial at Oregon Health & Science University, hoping that his experience might contribute to helping others in the future.

Tom was born on July 12, 1955, in Niagara Falls, to Edward Augustyniak and Bernadine Augustyniak (Majka). One of six children, he grew up in a close family and spent much of his youth hunting and fishing, experiences that shaped his steady, grounded nature and appreciation for hard work and the outdoors. He began his career as an iron worker in difficult winter conditions before later moving to California, where he met his wife, Kerry. In later years, he transitioned into logistics work.

Tom was known for being kind, patient, and easy to be around. Friends and family affectionately gave him nicknames such as “Steady Eddy,” “Saint Tom,” and “Poor Tom”, each reflecting his calm presence, generosity, and the way he treated others without judgment. He had a quiet ability to make people feel comfortable, supported, and accepted.

Above all else, Tom was devoted to his family. He shared 40 years of marriage with his wife, Kerry Augustyniak (Mulligan), and is loved and remembered by his children, Chelsey Rose Niles of Springfield, OR, and her husband Christopher, and their daughter Chloe; and Walker Thomas Augustyniak of Louisville, KY, and his wife Sarah. Tom never missed a school or sporting event, consistently showing up to support and encourage his children. He coached his daughter in basketball and cheered on his son through countless track, cross country, and ultra-marathon races, always offering steady encouragement and quiet pride in their efforts.

Becoming a grandfather brought Tom a deep sense of joy and purpose. Chloe quickly became the light of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with her. Whether exploring nature, sharing small adventures, or simply being together, Tom loved showing her the world and experiencing it again through her eyes. His patience, gentleness, and quiet wonder were never more visible than in the way he adored his granddaughter.

Family time was central to his life, and some of their most meaningful memories were made on camping trips and time spent together on hiking trails. Tom and his wife, Kerry, were often out walking with their dog, exploring lakes, rivers, and oceans. Rarely did a day go by without some kind of outing or shared adventure, even if it was simply dancing together out on their deck.

He is also loved and remembered by his siblings: Dorothy Hammer of Cheektowaga, NY; Joseph Augustyniak and his wife Vivian of Niagara Falls, NY; Marie Smedley of Little Elm, TX; Nancy Scrivano of Niagara Falls, NY; and Louise Augustyniak of Gilbert, AZ. He is also loved and remembered by his brothers- and sisters-in-law: Roark and Helena Mulligan of Santa Maria, CA; Kyle and Helen Mulligan of Drain, OR; and Mara Mulligan of Pilot Hill, CA; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

No formal service has been scheduled at this time. Some of Tom’s ashes have been returned to the earth at Mount Pisgah Arboretum, a place the family cherished and spent much time together.

The family finds comfort in the image of the great blue heron, a symbol of patience, resilience, calm strength, and quiet wisdom, qualities that reflected who Tom was throughout his life. Its steady, graceful presence in nature serves as a lasting reminder of his spirit and the sense of peace he brought to those around him.