News Summary
Donald Joseph Augustin, a notable scholar and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. His life was filled with academic achievements, sports accolades, and a passion for history. Known for his humor and strong values, Augustin was an avid researcher and published numerous works covering a variety of topics. He leaves behind lasting memories for his friends and family, who cherished his friendship and optimism. A Celebration of Life is scheduled, with his remains to be interred at Miramar National Cemetery.
Lake Forest, California
Donald Joseph Augustin, a cherished friend and respected scholar, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at the age of 91. Augustin’s life was marked by significant accomplishments, a vast array of interests, and impactful relationships that left a lasting impression on many.
Born on May 7, 1934, in Rugby, North Dakota, Augustin was the son of Anna Selland and Joseph Augustin. He excelled academically and athletically, earning the title of valedictorian at Rugby High School and displaying notable talent on the basketball team. He graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree in Business Administration in 1956 before serving in the U.S. Air Force until 1960, where he played football and basketball for military teams.
After completing his military service, Augustin worked as a cost analyst for North American Rockwell for 13 years. He later pursued a master’s degree in Eastern European and Russian history at California State University, Fullerton, graduating in 1978. Following his education, he moved to Mission Viejo, California, and began a career with the U.S. Postal Service.
In 1977, he was inducted into the North Dakota Athletics Hall of Fame in recognition of his accomplishments in football and basketball. Beyond his professional life, Augustin became known for his distinct background and character traits, describing himself humorously as “a stubborn German-Norwegian from North Dakota-Minnesota.” He was also a self-proclaimed conservative who held strong values and principles.
During a memorable 90th birthday celebration, Augustin emphasized the significance of friendships and family in his life. Although remaining a confirmed bachelor, he maintained close ties with friends through weekly phone calls and letters, displaying genuine interest in their lives. His lively tales often included experiences from athletics, military service, and his adventures in various fields.
Known affectionately as “Big Don” or “Augie,” Augustin was a historical researcher with a penchant for engaging debates. His personal library boasted an impressive 20,000 volumes, and he published over 45 documented works collectively known as “The Donald J. Augustin Papers” from 1970 to 2010. This extensive archive covers a wide range of topics, including Eastern European and Russian history, football, Dixieland Jazz, the Blue Angels, and the Las Vegas Mob.
An avid fan of classic movies and football, Augustin frequently took notes on various subjects, showcasing his passion for facts. He was particularly interested in the Blue Angels, often attending air shows and gathering lithographs. His devotion to hobbies extended to assembling over 160 model airplanes and being a loving pet owner and sitter, showing deep compassion for animals as well.
Augustin was also a supporter of animal charities, with a particular focus on Guiding Eyes for the Blind. He will be remembered fondly for his friendship, optimism, and wisdom, leaving a profound impact on all who knew him. His passing follows the death of his mother, Anna, his father, Joseph, and his sister, Phyllis. He is survived by his nephews, David and Don Vangsnes, and his niece, Peggy Hanson.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, at O’Connor Mortuary in Laguna Hills, California, with a luncheon to follow at Lucille’s Barbecue in Lake Forest. Augustin’s remains will be interred at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, California.
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Additional Resources
- Grand Forks Herald: Donald Joseph Augustin Obituary
- Wikipedia: Eastern Europe
- Grand Forks Herald: Remembering Donald Augustin
- Google Search: North Dakota Athletics Hall of Fame
- Grand Forks Herald: Community Mourns Donald Augustin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Donald Augustin
- Google News: Donald Joseph Augustin
Author: STAFF HERE MISSION VIEJO WRITER
MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER The MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMissionViejo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Mission Viejo, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Oso Fit 5K Fun Run and Community Health Fair, Walk Against Drugs & Community Fair, and National Night Out. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce and Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, plus leading businesses in retail and education that power the local economy such as The Shops at Mission Viejo, Capistrano Unified School District, and Amazon Delivery Station. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
