David E. Austin

David E. Austin
David Etnier Austin, 90, architect and founding partner of Austin Patterson Disston of South Norwalk, died on February 18. A modernist whose work included private residences and community spaces across the Northeast, Austin's designs were thoughtful, innovative and elegant.
Born in Hartford to Helen Goodwin and A. Everett "Chick" Austin on January 19, 1933, he attended the Kingswood School, Harvard College (B.S.) and the Harvard Graduate School of Design (M. Arch.). He began his career with Philip Johnson in New York before opening up his own practice in Connecticut.
Mr. Austin had a vivid imagination and boundless enthusiasm for life. His passions included sailing, playing the violin, and travel, and he never failed to take pleasure in a thoughtful conversation over a good meal.
A devoted husband and father, Austin and his first wife, Mollie Munro (deceased), had two children, Donald and Laura, who survive him. Mr. Austin also leaves his beloved wife and partner, Sandy Falconer, and her three children, Ian, Tonia and Tory, as well as eleven grandchildren.
A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, April 8, at 3:00 p.m. at the Noroton Yacht Club, and at a date to be determined at the Castine Yacht Club in August. A contribution in Austin's memory can be made to the Maine Coast Heritage Trust.