Grey Howick Merivale AUSTIN

AUSTIN, Grey Howick Merivale January 14, 1922 - January 28, 2013 'Sunset and Evening Star and one clear call for me'
Alfred Lord Tennyson Grey Austin, beloved father and grandfather, and husband of the late Anna, passed away in Calgary on January 28, 2013 at the age of 91 years. Born in Bridgetown, Barbados, Grey had many fond memories of growing up outdoors in this lovely island environment.
Grey was a graduate of Harrison College and studied Classics for one year at Codrington College, Barbados. He joined the Royal Navy on December 7, 1941 and received his first commission as a sub-lieutenant. He became a full Lieutenant and served as navigator on several ships involved in anti-submarine tactics.
After the war, his desire to see more of the world brought him to Montreal, where he received his BSc in Geology from McGill University. In 1949, his love of adventure brought him west. After working as an exploration geologist for Mobil Oil, he left the corporate world in 1968, founding his own company, Austin Exploration. Starting his own company was among the best decisions of his life. He took enormous pleasure in a long and successful career. He was proud to be recognized as a Life Member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA).
In 1954, he met Anna MacInnis at an Allied Arts Centre musical evening at Coste House. They were married August 20, 1955 and for 52 years shared a mutual love of music and the arts. Sadly, Anna passed away March 24, 2008.
Grey is survived by his sister Rosemary Bladon; son Charles (Isabella); daughters, Janet (Ashley), Patricia Austin-Edy (Brian), Joan Simmins (Geoffrey); grandchildren, David, Michael, Andrew and Rowan; and many nieces and nephews. Grey was predeceased by his parents William and Edna Merivale-Austin; brothers Bruce Merivale-Austin and Robin Austin. Grey will be remembered for his kindness and respect for others, his integrity and intelligence and his good-humoured optimism. He was greatly loved and will be sadly missed.
Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY'S Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W. Calgary, AB) on Monday, February 4, 2013 at 2:30 p.m. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com.
In living memory of Grey Austin a tree will be planted at Big Hill Springs Park Cochrane by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Calgary, AB, T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.