Austin Nicholas Hoots

Austin Nicholas Hoots, a beloved son and friend, left us unexpectedly on May 31, 2026, after a brief illness. Born on February 28, 1994, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Jeffrey Erb and Melanie Hoots, Austin was a free spirit who truly loved life. He had a passion for the outdoors, relishing every moment spent on the water and connecting with nature. Austin had a big heart for animals and was known for his love of Japanese comic art, especially Manga. He was an avid reader and book lover who appreciated the simple pleasure of spending time with a good book and often remarked on how much he loved the smell of books. Austin enjoyed keeping things simple, finding joy in the little things that brought comfort and happiness to his life. His friends will remember him for his laid-back attitude, his love for playing Magic: The Gathering, and his steadfast support as a member of the recovery community. Austin is survived by his loving family: his mother, Melanie May; his sister, Emmie Caroline May; his grandparents, Larry and Brenda Hoots, Anne Abner and Carol Erb; a host of uncles and aunts, including Chris (Diana) Meredith, Glenn (Erin) Hoots, Brett Hoots, and Ryann (Salena) Hoots; his special great-aunts, Cara Lee Voss and Judy Sample; and numerous loving cousins who cherished the time they spent with him and will forever hold his memory close to their hearts. He was preceded in death by his father, Jeffrey Erb, and his grandfather, Russell "Butch" Erb. In the spirit of Austin's deep love for the natural world, a celebration of his life will be held at the Davis Nature Pavilion at Fenner Nature Center on Sunday, August 2nd, at 2:00 PM. All who were touched by his warmth and joy are welcome to gather and remember him. For those wishing to make a lasting tribute to Austin, the family welcomes donations to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48906 (https://bit.ly/4lTktE9) and Colon Cancer Coalition, 2950 Xenium Lane N., STE 102, Minneapolis, MN 55441 (https://coloncancercoalition.org/?form=MissionSupportFund) His legacy will live on through the kindness he showed to others and his unwavering love for his family and friends. Rest in peace, Austin - you will be dearly missed. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Share your memories and condolences online at holihanatkin.com.

Austin Nicholas Hoots

February 28, 1994 - May 31, 2026