August Traxinger, commonly known as Gus, passed away at his Magnolia home on Friday, Sept. 26, from gastric cancer.
Mr. Traxinger was born on Nov. 20, 1927 in Herried, S.D., where he was raised on a farm and attended the local farm school. He joined the Navy in 1944 and served until the end of World War II.
He attended barber school in Spokane and returned to North Dakota where he worked as a barber for one year. He moved to Seattle in 1949 and opened "Gus' Village Barber Shop on the corner of W. McGraw and 32nd Ave. W. Several barbers worked for him over the years, but Ray Van Hook worked with him for more than 40 years until they retired in 1992.
He was very devoted to his family and many, many friends. He loved fishing, golfing, taking long walks, spending time at his property on the Skagit River and especially working in his garden.
Mr. Traxinger was a unique individual. He was known for his willingness to help others and for the practical advice and home-grown fruits and vegetables he shared with all. He was empathetic and compassionate, and his love and generosity encompassed everyone. There was "always room at the table for one more."
He had a positive attitude toward life, was determined to exercises and stay fit and had an incredible work ethic. Faith in God was most important in his life, as evidenced by his desire to have remembrances made to the Priests' Retirement Fund, which looks after the welfare of retired priests and sisters.
Mr. Traxinger will be greatly missed by all. As one friend said, "This world needs a lot more people like Gus."
Mr. Traxinger is survived by his long-time companion, Ann Hayes; his children LaVern Stevenson, Sylvia Simmons, Albert Traxinger, and Jane Harness; 14 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his wife, Alvina (Feist) and by his daughter, Linda.
The rosary will be held at 4 p.m., Friday, Oct. 10 and the funeral mass at 1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 11 at Our Lady of Fatima Church, 3218 W. Barrett St.
Remembrances may be made to: Archdiocesan Priest Retirement Fund, Stewardship & Development Office 710 9th Ave., Seattle, Wa. 98104 or to Group Health Hospice Fund, P.O. Box 34936, Seattle, Wa. 98124[[In-content Ad]]
