Family and friends are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Austin Colligan, who passed away on June 13, 2026, at the age of 28. Born on June 27, 1997, Austin leaves behind a legacy of ambition, loyalty, humor, and love that touched countless lives. His passing has created a tremendous void among those who knew him, and he is already being deeply missed by family members, friends, colleagues, and loved ones .
Austin was cherished by a large and loving family. He is survived by his mother, Carrie Kellogg (Lonnie); his sister, Anna Martiny (Brad); and his brother, Ben Dawson (Jennifer). He also leaves behind his father, Paul Colligan (Jennifer), along with siblings Samantha Platte (Hayden), Christina Kaspar (Sean), and Nolan . His close relationships with his aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and extended family were a significant part of his life and brought him immense joy.
He held a special place in his heart for his grandparents, Bob and Sharon Napier, as well as Paul and Rosie “Lola” Colligan, who preceded him in death . Austin also deeply loved his nieces and nephews, creating lasting memories with Harper, Hadlee, Hyatt, Jackson, Olivia, Landon, Gavin, Oliver, Stevie, and Harpy .
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A Life of Education and Personal Growth
Education and personal growth were important to Austin throughout his life. He was a proud graduate of Western Michigan University (WMU), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. During his time at the university, he became a respected member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, following in the footsteps of his father . His fraternity brothers remember him as a dedicated and spirited member—someone who contributed to the organization’s intramural success, including a championship football victory that brought pride to the chapter .
At the time of his passing, Austin was continuing his academic journey at Wayne State University, pursuing a master’s degree in Automotive Supply Chain Management . His commitment to education reflected his ambition and his desire to build a meaningful career in an industry that fascinated him. Friends and family admired his determination to constantly push himself further, whether in the classroom, the gym, or his professional life.
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A Professional Who Found Fulfillment in Travel and Adventure
Professionally, Austin found fulfillment in his role at Penske, where his work allowed him to travel extensively throughout the United States and Mexico . He embraced every opportunity for adventure and exploration, enjoying both the experiences and the relationships he built along the way. His dedication and work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike.
Austin’s colleagues at Penske remember him as someone who brought enthusiasm and energy to every project. The travel aspects of his role—the chance to see new places, meet new people, and experience different cultures—were a perfect fit for his adventurous spirit. He was known to joke about “racking up all the air and hotel points,” finding joy even in the small perks of a life on the road . His work allowed him to combine his professional ambitions with his love for exploration, and he cherished the opportunities it provided.
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A Passion for Sports That Defined His Character
Austin was a devoted supporter of Manchester United and could often be found watching matches at all hours to cheer on his favorite club. His enthusiasm for soccer was infectious, and he enjoyed sharing that passion with friends and family whenever possible . Whether it was a 4:00 a.m. kickoff or a mid-afternoon match, Austin made time to support his team, often trying to convert anyone within earshot into a fellow fan.
Austin was also an avid sports fan whose loyalty extended to several teams. A childhood trip to Boston sparked a lifelong love for the city and its sports franchises, leading him to passionately support the Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox, and New England Patriots . He closely followed college athletics, especially teams from Western Michigan University and the University of Michigan, cheering them on with the same intensity he brought to everything else in his life.
His friends remember watching games with Austin—his animated reactions, his dry commentary, and his infectious enthusiasm for every play. Sports were more than entertainment; they were a way for Austin to connect with others, to share in the highs and lows of competition, and to build lasting bonds with those around him.
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A Personality That Brightened Every Room
Those who knew Austin often recall his distinctive dry sense of humor and ability to brighten any room. He had a gift for making people laugh, even during difficult moments, and his wit and personality made him a memorable presence in the lives of many . Friends and family describe him as someone who could “get the toughest of frowns to crack a smile,” a quality that made him beloved in every circle he entered.
Austin also demonstrated remarkable discipline in his daily life. Whether it meant waking before dawn to work out at the gym or committing himself fully to his studies and career goals, he consistently pushed himself to improve and achieve more . His early-morning gym sessions were legendary among his friends—a testament to his dedication and his unwillingness to settle for mediocrity.
Another defining aspect of Austin’s life was his deep love for his country. His strong sense of patriotism was evident in the pride he carried and the values he upheld throughout his life . Those who knew him recall his unwavering respect for the United States and his gratitude for the opportunities the country provided him.
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A Family Man at Heart
While Austin’s professional and personal pursuits were varied and impressive, his family remained the center of his world. His mother, Carrie, his father, Paul, and his siblings—Anna, Ben, Samantha, Christina, and Nolan—were sources of pride, love, and joy throughout his life . The bonds he shared with them were unbreakable, and he cherished every moment spent together.
Austin was particularly close to his nieces and nephews—Harper, Hadlee, Hyatt, Jackson, Olivia, Landon, Gavin, Oliver, Stevie, and Harpy . He delighted in being “Uncle Austin,” creating memories that these young family members will carry with them for the rest of their lives. Whether it was attending a family gathering, sharing a laugh, or simply being present, Austin made sure his family knew they were loved.
His aunts and uncles—including Kristen Stewart, Scott Napier, Renatta Napier, Robbie Napier, Martina Napier, Pam Loch, Dan Loch, Norm VanAlstine, and Tracy VanAlstine—also held a special place in his heart . The Colligan and Napier families came together often, and Austin was always at the center of the celebrations, bringing energy, humor, and love to every gathering.
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The Community Responds
The news of Austin’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and support from the communities he touched. His fraternity brothers at Alpha Tau Omega have shared memories of his leadership and camaraderie, while colleagues at Penske have expressed their shock and sadness at the loss of a dedicated team member .
In a tribute that reflects the love and respect Austin inspired, the family has designated the DeWitt Futbol Club as a recipient of memorial contributions in his name . The organization, which supports youth soccer in the Lansing area, was a fitting choice given Austin’s love for the sport and his passion for nurturing the next generation of players.
Checks made payable to the DeWitt Futbol Club may be sent to 3824 Glade Way, Lansing, MI 48906, ensuring that Austin’s memory and his love for soccer live on through the organization he supported .
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A Life Worth Celebrating
As loved ones reflect on Austin’s life, they remember a young man whose kindness, humor, ambition, and loyalty left a lasting impact on everyone around him. Though his life was cut tragically short, the memories he created and the relationships he nurtured will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Austin lived his 28 years with a fullness and intensity that inspired others. He woke early, worked hard, traveled far, and loved deeply. He pursued his passions—soccer, sports, travel, education, and family—with a commitment that was remarkable. He never hesitated to share his enthusiasm with others, whether it was explaining the finer points of a Manchester United match or convincing a friend to join him on an early-morning workout.
He leaves behind a legacy defined not by the length of his life but by the depth of his impact. His dry humor, his infectious energy, his unwavering patriotism, and his fierce loyalty to family and friends will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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Funeral Arrangements
Funeral services for Austin Colligan will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at South Church of the Nazarene in Lansing, Michigan . Family and friends will be received at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the start of the service. A luncheon will follow immediately afterward, providing an opportunity for loved ones to gather, share memories, and celebrate Austin’s life.
For those unable to attend in person, the family has encouraged memorial contributions to the DeWitt Futbol Club as a way to honor Austin’s memory and his love for the sport .
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Forever Remembered
Austin Colligan will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of determination, friendship, and love will endure for years to come.
In the words of his family: “Please know that Austin loved all of you; just as much as you loved him” .
Rest in peace, Austin. Your laughter, your loyalty, and your unwavering spirit will never be forgotten.