Austin Joseph Gillen, age 16 of Virginia died Tuesday, February 7, 2012 in Essentia St. Mary's Medical Center in Duluth from complications of Muscular Dystrophy. He is now with Jesus, healed by the very presence of God. Austin was born January 25, 1996 in Winfield, Illinois the son of Tim and Lynne (Dick) Gillen. They lived in Grand Prairie, Texas prior to moving to Virginia in 2003. Austin was baptized in November 2008 and has a deep love for his Savior, Jesus Christ. God's Spirit shone through Austin, and he was concerned for his friend's faith. He attended the Embarrass Evangelical Free Church, the Cross Hill Community Church in Virginia, and the Vineyard Church in Duluth. He was a hard working, model student getting mostly "A's" at Virginia High School and was well liked by his peers. He enjoyed spending time with his friends, and his spirit of appreciation touched the lives of all who knew him.
Austin and his brother Everett were Goodwill Ambassadors for the Northland Chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association for two years. They were very active in publicity, fundraising, and helping to educate people about Muscular Dystrophy. Austin was very brave and faced his battle with M.D. with courage and grace.
Austin is survived by his mom: Lynne Gillen of Virginia; his dad: Tim Gillen of Gilbert; his brother: Everett Gillen of Virginia; maternal grandparents: Ron & Sandy Dick of Virginia; paternal grandparents: Dan & Val Gillen of Starkboro, VT; paternal great-grandmother: Catherine "Nana" Noonan of New Jersey; aunts and uncles: Brenda Peabody, Scott & Sue Gillen, and Shannon Gillen; numerous cousins; and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother: Cecilia Gillen; uncle: Perry Dick; and great-grandparents.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 10, 2012 from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Bauman-Cron Funeral Home in Virginia. Visitation will continue Saturday, February 11, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. until the 2:00 p.m. Funeral Service in the Embarrass Evangelical Free Church in Embarrass. Pastor Marlin Bjornrud will officiate. Spring interment will be in the Embarrass Cemetery.
Memorials in Austin's name are appreciated. One suggestion is to be directed to the MDA.
Family services provided by Bauman-Cron, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Virginia. To share condolences online, please see: www.baumanfuneralhome.com.

Born: January 25, 1996 Place of Birth: Winfield, IL Death: February 7, 2012 Place of Death: Duluth, MN Visitation Friday February 10, 2012 , 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Bauman-Cron Funeral Home Chapel
Visitation Saturday February 11, 2012 , 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Embarrass Evangelical Free Church
Funeral Service Saturday February 11, 2012 , 2:00 p.m. at Embarrass Evangelical Free Church
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