Obituary of Dee Ausmus, Jr.

Dee Ausmus, Jr. died peacefully at Green Tree Memory Center on May 14, 2015, in Sand Springs, OK at the age of 91. He was an original founding father and charter member of the Greatest Generation, a true leader of men. Dee is survived by his children Peg Ausmus O’Neal, Dan Ausmus, Teresa Ausmus, Jim Ausmus, David Ausmus, Katie Ausmus, 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Julia Elizabeth Mayfield Ausmus, sisters Thelma Snapp, Nadine Goodwin, Wanda Lambert, brothers James “Son” Ausmus, Bob Ausmus, son Eddie Ausmus, daughter Regina Stickler, and granddaughters Patricia Salvo, Lindsey Slaton and Nicole Marie Stickler. Dee was born on May 11, 1924 in Sapulpa, OK to Dee Ausmus, Sr., of Fincastle, Tennessee and Lula Scott Ausmus, of Baxter Springs, Kansas. After graduating from Sapulpa High School in 1942, Dee received a football scholarship to Oklahoma A&M (OSU). Dee married Julia Elizabeth Mayfield, his high school sweetheart and love of his life, in 1945. They set the ultimate example of true and always affectionate partnership for 70 years. Dee held his experiences in World War II as private ones. However, we do know that he served as a Master Sergeant in the Combat Engineer Receiving Corps. He received citations for: Philippine Liberation, American Defense, American Theater, Asiatic Pacific Theater, European Theater Operations and the Victory Medal. He was also a rifle expert and served with distinction as a trainer and inspiration to his men. He was honorable discharged in 1949. Dee was Owner and Operator of Ausmus Construction Co. from 1947 through his retirement. He was an active and dedicated member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and often volunteered at church activities, as well as being a committed member of the Sacred Heart Men’s Club. Dee was also a member of the Sapulpa Elk’s Lodge. Dee had an adventurous and ornery spirit and was generous to a fault. He was always devoted and loving to his family and enjoyed the friendship of many. His role as a father was stern but yielding and always accompanied by humor, graciousness and wisdom. Dee loved practical jokes and told many stories about his life experiences. He was and always will remain deeply loved by all his family. The family would like to thank the caregivers at Green Tree Memory Center and the staff of Grace Hospice for their awesome dedication, love and support. A Rosary will be conducted at Green Hill Funeral Home Chapel, Sapulpa, OK on Monday, May 18th at 6:00 pm. The funeral is scheduled Tuesday, May 19th at 10:30 am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Sapulpa. There will be a reception to follow at the church. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Dee’s life. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Alzheimer’s Association at 2448 E. 81st Street, Suite 3000 Tulsa, OK 74137-4250. The family has entrusted the services to the directors at Green Hill Funeral Home. 918-224-2312/www.greenhillok.com