Agustin Ayala

Agustin preferred to go by August and was also affectionately known as Papi. He was born in Edinburg, Texas, on January 23, 1952, to Teodoro Ayala and Macedonia Garcia. He was the oldest of seven children.

As a young man, he spent time in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with his brother Benigno before reuniting with his other siblings in Lansing, Michigan, at the age of 17. He graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in 1971. He was employed by Motor Wheel and later by Air Lift.

In 1978, he married Martha Ann “Marty” (Whitney) Ayala. They blended their families and welcomed two children together.

August was a selfless man of deep faith who loved God with all his heart and cherished his family. He loved playing sports, including basketball and softball, and was often at the center of football games with his children, friends, and neighbors. His love of sports extended to fantasy football, basketball, and baseball. He enthusiastically managed several teams each year and enjoyed the friendly competition. He was an avid collector of antiques, sports cards, and memorabilia. August also enjoyed music and attending local festivals, including Michigan Fest, Common Ground, Bless Fest, Jazz Fest, and the Chili Cook-off. He had a knack for making the local news while attending these events, frequently appearing on television or in photographs published in the Lansing State Journal.

August and Marty were longtime members of University Christian Church in East Lansing, Michigan. August always had fond memories of playing on the church softball team.

August was preceded in death by his parents, Teodoro Ayala and Macedonia Garcia; his brother, Teodoro Ayala Jr.; his sister, Manuela Molina; his stepson, Pope Garcia; and his loving wife, Marty.

August is survived by his brother, Benigno Ayala; his sisters, Francisca Gonzalez (Art), Carmen Ayala, and Mary Ayala Moralez; his children, Tricia Ayala, Teresha Ayala, Augustine Ayala, Sarah Taber (Ryan), and Elijah Ayala; his stepson, Steve Hoskin; his grandchildren, Dillon, Cody, Cera, Maya, Jordan, and Isabella; his step-grandchildren, Jourdin, Lynsie, Sinclair, and Kelsey; and several great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on a date to be announced at University Christian Church, 310 N. Hagadorn Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823. The family will share additional information once details are known.

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