Alma E. “Sunnie” (Haas) Augenstein

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Alma E. “Sunnie” (Haas) Augenstein, age 91, of Warwick Neck Avenue, Warwick, died on Monday, November 28, 2016, at Rhode Island Hospital. She was the wife of the late Helmut Augenstein. They were married for 68 years.

Born in Cherry Plains, New York, a daughter of the late Marvin T. and Mary (Thomas) Haas, she lived in Warwick for 68 years. During the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, Mrs. Augenstein was a well-known fashion designer, working under the name Elizabeth Haas. She launched her career with the patented design the “Twister”, a basic shift dress with wide ties that shaped the body. Her designs were sold in Shepard’s, Gladdings and in New York.

She is survived by two sons, Helmut T. Augenstein and his wife, Dorothy of Warwick, and Erich W. Augenstein and his wife, Liz of North Pownal, Vermont; a daughter, Lisa J. Augenstein of Warwick; a brother, Ernest Haas of Adams, MA; three grandchildren: Erika McEnery, Elizabeth Smith, and Christian Augenstein; and three great-grandchildren: Caden McEnery, and Addison and Walker Smith. She was the sister of the late Marion Green, Edith Scrivins, Katherine Turner, Shirley Keating, Clifford Haas, William Haas, Robert Haas, Mervin Haas, and Norman Haas.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Saturday, December 3, from 4-7 p.m. in the Barrett & Cotter Funeral Home, 1328 Warwick Avenue, Spring Green, Warwick. A private burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Cornerstone Adult Services, Inc., 140 Warwick Neck Avenue, Warwick, RI 02889. www.barrettandcotter.com