Austin James Sthole, 37, of Novinger, Missouri, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024 at his home surrounded by the love of his family.

The son of Jeff and Vickie (Baugher) Dodson and Harper Sthole Jr. (deceased), he was born October 24, 1986 in Kirksville, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his father and father-in-law, Steven Preston. On April 6, 2013 in Novinger, Missouri, Austin was united in marriage to Samantha Preston.

Austin is survived by his wife Samantha of the home; his mother and father Vickie and Jeff Dodson of Novinger, MO; two sons, Connor Sthole and Jasper Sthole of the home; one daughter, Harper Sthole of the home; five brothers, Ian Sthole of Novinger, MO, Evan Sthole of Evans, GA, Adrian Dodson of Novinger, MO, Nathan Dodson of Milan, MO, and Caleb Dodson of Novinger, MO; one sister, Bethany Dodson of Columbia, MO; his grandparents, Janyce Baugher of Kirksville, MO, and Peggy Dodson of Novinger, MO.

Austin was a graduate from Novinger R-I High School with the Class of 2005. He served his country as a SSGT in the United States Air Force, serving in South Korea, Germany, Afghanistan, and Israel. Austin was last employed at Hartzell Hardwoods in Kirksville as a lumber inspector. Austin enjoyed fishing, carpentry, and studying his Bible. He was an avid reader of theological works of Spurgeon and R.C. Sproul. He liked to sharpen knives and hoped to make Damascus knives as a business one day. Austin enjoyed grilling and smoking meats and his family had a gift for serving people and they entertained in their home several nights per week. Austin enjoyed texting with friends while trading riddles, dad jokes, and discussions regarding current events and the scriptures. His family meant everything to him. He was honorable man, a good friend to many and will be dearly missed.

Austin was a member of Grace Community Bible Church of Kirksville.

Memorial services with military honors will be held 6:00 p.m. Saturday, February 10, 2024 at Grace Community Bible Church in Kirksville, with Pastor Ben Jorden officiating.

Honorary pallbearers will be Ian Sthole, Evan Sthole, Adrian Dodson, Nathan Dodson, Caleb Dodson, and Jon Baugher.

Memorial donations in memory of Austin may be made to his wife Samantha Sthole and may be left at Grace Community Bible Church or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, MO 63501.