Michael Joseph Austin

Michael Joseph Austin was born on March 14, 1987, and left our world on October 22, 2021. Mike grew up in Original Carrollwood, which he often described as the place where he had an ideal childhood. He had a special group of neighborhood friends who he loved. Mike attended Carrollwood Elementary School, Most Holy Redeemer, Jesuit High School and Chamberlain High School. He graduated from the University of West Florida with a degree in Marine Studies. After graduating, Mike returned to Tampa where he worked for his father’s firm before obtaining his All-lines Insurance Adjusting license and becoming a claims adjuster.

Mike was fun and loved to be with people. He was a good listener and respected the dignity of others. People of all ages and status in life found him to be an easy friend. Mike faced many situations with bravado, but those who knew and loved him best saw a kindness and vulnerability that couldn’t be denied. He enjoyed reading, particularly about the military and current events. He was a pretty good cook, loved dogs, was into fitness and was a certified PADI Open Water Diver.

Mike loved to play and watch sports. He was blessed with the ability to play most, with better than average results. From age five to fourteen he played baseball for Forest Hills Pony League and continued playing in high school. As he grew older, he enjoyed playing golf and spent many weekends with his dad and others on the course. His passion though, was fishing. Fishing was Mike’s favorite activity from the time he got his first fishing pole at age three and lasting throughout his lifetime. He developed an uncanny knowledge of fish habitats and behavior. He had an expertise and amazing creativity when it came to rigging his fishing poles with various baits and lures. He was convinced he had the solution for every fish in every environment and he usually did. His favorite local fishing was the flats of Tampa Bay. Mike always said the water was his happy place.

Mike loved his family immensely. He leaves behind his father and best friend, Robert, his mother Lori, his sisters Hannah and Ali and a very large and loving extended family. Mike will be forever loved and missed.

Details for Mike’s memorial service will be provided by Blount and Curry Carrollwood Chapel. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mike’s memory to http://shatterproof.org/nationalmemorial/mike-austin