Austin William Shanks

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Austin W. Shanks, age 19, of Hastings whose life was marked by compassion, strength, and an unwavering dedication to those around him. Austin passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 1, 2025. He was born on May 17, 2006, to Bart and Michelle (Lau) Shanks in Hastings, Minnesota. A graduate of Hastings High School, Austin had a lifelong passion for sports that brought joy to his life. He especially loved hockey, fishing, basketball, and golf—whether watching a game, practicing his swing, shooting hoops, or getting a line wet, he was always up for activities and adventure with friends and family.

He will be remembered as a hard-working and kind-hearted individual who never hesitated to lend a helping hand. Thoughtful in every sense of the word, he had a gift for making others feel seen and supported—whether through a quiet act of generosity or words that always seemed to arrive at just the right time.

Austin is survived by his devoted parents: Father Bart (Kristin) Shanks and Mother Michelle (Peter Jay) Shanks; cherished sisters Haley and Aubrey Shanks; and treasured step-siblings Peyton Jay, Drew, and Cameron Street. He also leaves behind his loving grandparents Glenn and Deb Lau along with step-grandparents Barb Elliott (Kristin) and Steve Jay (Peter) who held him dear. He will be missed deeply by his aunts Olivia (Josh) Kaplan and Christina Lau (Nate Johnson), and by his cousins Willow Kaplan, Aniiya Johnson, and Journii Johnson—each of whom shared special memories and moments with him that will live on in their hearts. Austin leaves behind a wide circle of dear friends and extended family who will continue to carry his memory forward.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Jackie (Jack) Shanks and grandmother Lieng Shanks, whose spirits undoubtedly welcomed him with open arms.

May his legacy be a source of comfort, and may the light he shared continue to shine in all those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street in Hastings. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with a reception to follow the service.

For guestbook and further information, please visit www.starksonfamily.com

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.