John Leonard Aust, Sr., (“Smokey”) passed away unexpectedly on March 7, 2017, with his loved ones by his side.

John was born in Bakersfield, California to Spurgeon Aust and Clara (Young) Aust. He was the 8th child of 12 kids born to this union. He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 sister, Clara “Jiggs” Webb.

John grew up with his family in California, where he met the love of his life, Linda Seaton. Eventually, Linda and John got married in 1975. In 1992, they moved to Pierce City, Missouri to be near another family member. Linda and John had two wonderful boys, John Aust Jr. and Brad Aust. John drove trucks to support his family. He loved the travel and getting to know new places. He also loved fishing with his oldest son and going to the races with his youngest, working on the cars that he raced, and then watching him compete against the other rivals. He was known for cracking jokes constantly. He had a gentle nature and a kind heart. He never said a bad word about anyone and would lend a hand to friend and stranger alike, whenever he could. He loved his canine best buddy, Rocky. Most of all, John loved his family with a devotion that cannot be matched.

John is survived by his wife of 42 years, Linda Aust; his children, John (Jaime) Aust, Jr. and Brad (Lisa) Aust; his five grandkids, Haley Stout, Alex Stout, Kevin Jones, Cheyenne Jones and Cody Hollis; his siblings, Irene (Neil) Whitehurst, Rubin (Brenda) Aust, Larry (Pat) Aust, Mike Aust, David (Debbie) Aust, Gene (Pam) Aust, Matt Aust, Don (Lupe) Aust, Ron Aust and Judy (Steve) Wharff; as well as many special nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives and many, many friends.

Services: A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at 1:00 pm at River of Life Church, 1504 Glen St., Monett MO. All are welcome to attend.

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