Irving Graham Austin

He was called by both his 1st and middle names: Irv and Graham.At the age of 8, his Parents, I.C. and Ora Austin moved to Carlsbad, New Mexico.Graham developed an early interest in aircraft and flying. By the age of 16, he was given a single engine prop plane for his birthday. The cost was $200. Irv graduated from Carlsbad High in 1943 and immediately joined the Army Air Corp. Officer and Pilot training took place at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK. Austin graduated 1st in his class and was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant, Pilot and Commander of B-24's with crews of 5. After WW2, Graham enrolled

at the private college California Aero Tech in Glendale, Ca. He graduated 1st in his class completing 4 years of college in 2. He was subsequently hired by Garrett Air Research in Los Angeles where he remained for the next 40 years as an aerospace engineer. Graham was responsible for the design of the 1st life support chest pack worn by Astronaut Ed White, during the 1st American space walk. He designed much of the on board life support systems for the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo capsules. He was also a chief engineer of the the fastest plane in history: The SR-71 Blackbird that flew 3 times the speed of sound. In his spare time, Graham's hobbies were golf and photography. Irving Graham Austin is survived by his wife of 72 years, Margaret. His sons Ken and Rick Austin, daughters-in-law Maryl and Shari Austin, Grandchildren Hayley, Graham (wife Katie),and Jeff Austin, Nicole Steverson (husband Christian), step-grandchildren Justin Holz, Clarissa Hols, Nathan Holz, and Cameron Harvey, great grandchildren Reagan Wright, and Mac Austin.

A viewing and gathering will be held at Pacific View Memorial Park and Mortuary 3500 Pacific View Drive, Corona Del Mar, Ca. 92625 Friday May 12, 5pm to 8pm.

Services will held at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church, 31641 La Novia Ave. San Juan Capistrano, Calif.at 4pm Saturday May 13.

Family, Friends, and Well Wishers are welcome at both. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate to: www.hoaghospitalfoundation.org