Donald Lester Young, 89

October 21, 2023

Donald Lester Young, age 89, passed away at the Long Community Home on October 21, 2023.

Don grew up in Johnstown, where his family lived in several different homes, one of which was a log cabin. His father introduced him to the outdoors through fishing and hunting, nurturing a love for these activities, as well as hiking and camping, which Don would later share with his own family.

A graduate of Johnstown High School, Don worked at Bethlehem Steel. One of his best friends, Ray Peterson built several camps in Potter County, Don went along to help, then to hunt, and eventually to become the camp cook. He made many friends among the hunters there.

Don served the army in both the motor pool and ordnance maintenance. He did a tour in Germany, the high point of which was a motorcycle trip through several countries.

Donald met Frances Louise Young at a square dance. They were wed six years later and moved to Lancaster County, where they raised three children and celebrated 58 years of marriage. Don always helped Fran set up and run her booth at local craft shows. They were very much a team, raising their kids, traveling when they could, and caring for each other.

After moving to Lancaster, Don was employed by the RCA Picture Tube Division. The quality of his work allowed him to join Specifications and Quality control where he continued until retirement. Don was an active member of the United Methodist church in Leola and served as an usher for many years. He shared his love of the outdoors with the Boy Scouts of Troop 8, Bird-in-Hand as an Assistant Scoutmaster. Don joined the local Volksmarch Club and traveled with friends to participate in 5k or 10k walks, as well as providing support and trail marking.

Don is survived by his son, Jeffrey, and partner, Dyane, of Ephrata; son, Gerald, and spouse Shama, of York; daughter, Jennifer, and spouse, Susan, of Columbia; and two grandchildren, Kaidin, and Asha. He is also survived by his sister Linda, of Davidsville; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Roy and Edna Young, sister Marian, and sister Jane.

He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. Funeral Services will be held on November 3rd, 2023 at the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home and Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. Guests will be received starting at 6pm, prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to Leola United Methodist Church, 7 West Main ST, Leola, PA, 17540.