Hello Everyone,

This Fundraiser is for Austin Strawderman and his Family. On Tuesday September 20th, in the early hours of the morning, Austin suffered from a very rare type of brain hemorrhage. He was immediately rushed to the Hospital and after a valiant battle, passed just a few days later on Thursday September 22nd at 4:40pm. All the money raised will be used to help pay for all costs associated with his End-of-Life care and Funeral service. Everything extra will be going to his family for support in this time of need. Austin was living with his parents, helping out in every area, paying bills, and updating the house with little projects whenever he had the time. This fund is also to help supplement the help Austin gave his parents while he was there, as this traumatic event happened fast and without any warning.

It is extremely hard and frankly impossible to capture Austin's amazing personality and spirit within this small box here. Every time I read something that someone else wrote about Austin, it becomes more apparent to me that the love I have for him is something shared by many. I only knew Austin for 5 years, but within that short period of time, we quickly became close friends, and before I knew it, every get-together for fun or work was ended with a "Love ya Guy!" At first, this was something I laughed at awkwardly in my head but over time became something I quietly cherished. I don't think that I have ever, in my life, had a friend who seemed so invigorated and energized by the concept of just friendship alone. I used to selfishly think the reason for this was that him and I just connected so well (which we absolutely did!), but the truth is that this is just who Austin was. He had this type of relationship with all of his close friends and family. His love was just an old school real type of sincere and genuine care that isn't around as much anymore. Being friends with Austin was not a passive role. Being friends with Austin meant that you had someone in your life who was invested in what was going on with you. It meant you had someone calling you last minute to see if you wanted to go on a kayak ride or hit the mountains for a snowboard trip, or go "rip some lip". If he asked how you were doing, you could not get by with a "things are great" bland answer. He always made a point to really get in touch with you and check in on your spirit. He would ask specific questions that made it clear he was aware of you and the personal aspects of your life, and he was curious about the absolute truth about how you were doing. There was no bullshitting Austin in any manner; he just would catch it and knock it down too fast and hard.

I could go on and on about Austin because there were honestly so many aspects to him. He had a million hobbies, and was an unbelievably talented craftsman who made absolutely gorgeous pieces of art that he poured his heart into. However, I think it's important to also read what some other people wrote about Austin because it communicates his being in a fuller way than I can alone.

Erica ~ "Those that knew Austin personally knew he was always down for a good time and it was never a dull moment when he was around. Those that knew him professionally knew that he loved every aspect of his job. From the little design details to the connections made with home owners/vendors. He came to work each week full of excitement and made each space unique with his creative touch. There is truly nothing more special than watching your friends succeed in doing the things they're most passionate about. I couldn't be more proud of Austin for everything he accomplished. I'm going to miss our weekly coffee & lunch breaks reminiscing on the past (which was his favorite), bouncing design pitches off each other, and discussing our hopes & dreams - I'm excited to soon share some of our final projects together <3"

Allan ~ "WILD. Savage, loyal, supportive & loyal again. Anyone who knows Austin has fought with him at one point or another and been called out by him numerous times. Truth hurts. He knew it, he just didn't care. And it was because he loved you. Which is why those closest to him wouldn't want it any other way. Every moment I'm struggling, I've been thinking of what Austin would say. Normally I'm pretty sure he'd tell me to grow up and stop being weak. I've learned a ton from this kid. Grateful for every moment we've had, the good, the bad, and the "are we really doing this." Can't wait till I see you again bro. Love ya buddy."

Mike ~ "Words can’t even describe what I’m feeling right now, one of my best friends, cousin and absolute animal of a person is gone. I literally just saw you two weeks ago and the moment I walked through that door and saw your huge smile, it made me so happy. To know I can’t do that anymore breaks my heart beyond words. You helped me through my lowest points and balled with me through my highest. You were there when I was born and was there till the end with me, making sure I was always doing good in school and was “a fucking beast on the field." The fact that I can’t get another hug and “I love you bro” hurts. You made everyone laugh until it hurt and when we cried we did it together. No words can describe how I feel, let alone the rest of your family and friends. I love you Austin and always will. Till we meet again brother."

Everyone who reads this and knows Austin closely, I hope this does justice to the passionate and amazing individual he is. Anyone who knew him a bit just from a home project, I hope this helps you gain a greater understanding of his spirit. If you feel compelled to help Austin and his family out, even 10$ goes a long way. Thank you for reading, and thank you for spending a little time thinking about Austin and the impact he had on those around him. Service will be held on October 15th at Little Rhody Lobster & Seafood Restaurant in Ashaway, RI from 11am-4pm.