Irvin Anthony Heminger
Engineer, entrepreneur, U.S. Air Force veteran, and a man of many talents.
Irvin Anthony Heminger has led a remarkably varied life, combining a career in technology and business with a passion for creativity and community involvement.
In the early 1960s, Irvin served in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, where he lived with his wife and their son, Shaun. He later worked as a computer engineer for IBM and subsequently worked for NASA in Houston, Texas.
Drawing on his technical experience, Irvin established Data Plus Incorporated, a Houston-based company specializing in the repair and sale of industrial monitors and electronic equipment used in process-control systems. The company operated from several Houston locations, including offices on Park Place Boulevard and Tucker Street.
In the early 2000s, his son Jeremy developed a website and an extensive online product catalog for Data Plus, an experience that helped launch Jeremy’s career in web development.
After closing Data Plus, Irvin ventured into the restaurant business with his son Shaun, briefly operating Dante’s Bar and Fire Grille in Houston. Jeremy contributed the restaurant’s logo and graphic designs.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Irvin has always had a creative and theatrical side. He has won awards in competitive chili cook-offs and participated in numerous community events.
One particularly memorable appearance was at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Parade, where he wore an elaborate costume that created the illusion of riding on the back of a giant gorilla. Walking on painter’s stilts, wearing an enormous cowboy hat, and using a cane for balance, he brought the unusual character to life.
Irvin has also portrayed Father Time at Galveston’s annual Dickens on the Strand festival over multiple years, appearing in elaborate Victorian-inspired holiday costume. He has additionally participated in Sagemont Church’s Heavenly Sounds Handbell Choir, appearing with the group at community celebrations.
From military service and computer engineering to business ownership, elaborate costumes, and award-winning chili, Irvin’s story is one of varied interests, technical ingenuity, and a willingness to try something new.
