Ronald A. Young

COLONIE.  Ronald A. Young, 89, of Colonie, died Monday, January 17 after a struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born in Glens Falls, NY, he was the son of Marion Pettingell Young and Arthur Young.  Ron was a graduate of Bethlehem High School and the State University of New York at Albany.  He served for two years in the U.S. Army.  Ron worked for 46 years as part of the New York State Insurance Department.

Ron’s religious faith was a central part of his life.  He was influenced by his grandfather, a Methodist minister, who baptized him when he was four years old.  In his childhood church, he was called “the little preacher.”  Ron was a faithful member of the Roessleville Presbyterian Church for over 53 years, and enjoyed singing in the church choir, helping those in need, and organizing and participating in yearly Christmas caroling at Memorial Hospital.

Ron was a die-hard Yankees fan and a Civil War buff, with an extensive library of books and materials related to both interests, as well as music.   He was a member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Civil War Trust.  Ron loved listening to music, singing, and playing the piano and organ.  He was a particular fan of The Phantom of the Opera and enjoyed the trip to New York City to see it on Broadway with his wife, Pat.  He also enjoyed traveling and camping, especially visiting the ocean and lighthouses.  He always enjoyed spending time with his family.

Ron was predeceased by his wife of 30 years, Joan Geisler Young, his sister, Peggy Ann Young, and granddaughter Courtney Hill.  Ron was also predeceased by his beloved “granddogs,” Jasper and Minnie.

Ron is survived by his wife of 27 years, M. Patricia Young, son Richard Young (Christi), daughter Janice Lugo (Robert), stepchildren Fred Hill (Jerri), Scott Hill (Dodi), Terri Selkirk (John), and Todd HIll (Tammy), grandchildren Morrison, Kindle, Shayla, Christopher, Nicole, Shannon, Robert, Nikalus, and Ruby, as well as six great grandchildren.  Ron is also survived by his brother, J. Edward Young (Dorothy), as well as several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Avenue, Albany, on Sunday, January 23 from 1-3 p.m., with service following at 3:00 p.m.  At the request of the family, for those who wish, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern NY, 1003 New Loudon Road, Suite 102, Cohoes, NY 12047 or at alz.org/northeasterny. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com