George Fatton

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of George Albert Fatton on January 30, 2025, at the age of 96. Born in Staten Island, New York, on February 4, 1928, to George and Florence Fatton (nee Forster), George led a life filled with service, adventure, and love.

At the age of 18, George enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served with honor from 1946 to 1947. Following his undergraduate studies at the University of Colorado, Boulder, he went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from UCLA, where he graduated in 1954. His career as an aerospace engineer was a point of great pride, particularly his work with North American Aviation on the Apollo Program. He played an instrumental role in the design and testing of the Apollo Program Guidance System and the construction of the iconic Apollo Command Module—a legacy that contributed to one of humanity’s most remarkable achievements.

In his personal life, George was a passionate adventurer. Whether on the water or traveling the world, he embraced every moment. He was an avid boater and enjoyed water skiing trips to Southern California’s lakes, including Puddingstone, Perris, Castaic, and Lake Havasu on the Colorado River. He also relished sailing to Catalina Island. In retirement, George's travels took him to far-reaching places such as Israel, Russia, France, Australia, and many more, while he also found joy in frequent visits to Hawaii, Las Vegas, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

George had a deep love for the simple pleasures in life. He enjoyed dining at the finest restaurants and kept a meticulous spreadsheet of his favorite spots in the Newport Beach area. His love of life was balanced by his faith; he was a devoted member of Mariners Church in Irvine and cherished his time with his Bible study group.

George’s legacy lives on through his family. He was preceded in death by his parents and two beloved grandchildren. He is survived by his brother, three children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply.