Vestus H. "Ves" Austin, 69, of Washington, formerly of East Peoria, passed away at 4:48am Sunday, September 8, 2019 at UnityPoint Health- Proctor in Peoria. Ves was born September 12, 1949 in Parsons, TN to the late Ernest C. and Lillian B. Austin. He married Deborah L. Crabtree, of Peoria, on November 20, 1988 in Peoria Heights; she survives. Ves graduated from East Peoria Community High School. He went on to work for many years at Libbys in Morton, retiring in 2015. He enjoyed traveling, fishing, and trips to Kentucky Lake. Watching the birds, especially hummingbirds, was another favorite pastime. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded by Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Vietnam Veterans of America.