by Dennis Augustine
Today I honor my father, Frank Augustine, who lived a long, happy life and passed peacefully at 100 on December 18, 2017.
Born in Pittston, PA, January 5, 1917, his first job was cooking at the iconic Clam Broth House in Hoboken, NJ. He served the youth as a Boy Scout leader for 25 years, U.S. Army veteran (two stints) , known as an Urban gardener in the Gold Coast newspaper 1988 and Wine Maker. After working at Janssons Milk, he spent 25-years as a team leader at former Maxwell House Coffee on the Hudson. He was a member of the Elks Club #74, and served as the Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus for two years.
A devout Catholic, Dad entered the Maryknoll Seminary before choosing a faithful lay life rooted in service.
One of our most treasured memories was an Amtrak journey—just the two of us—from New Jersey to St. Augustine, Florida, our namesake city, for his birthday. A gift to him that became a gift to me as well.
Happy Birthday, Dad.
May you rest in eternal peace.
