Stephen Paul Young

Stephen Paul Young, 78, passed peacefully in his home on November 30, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born July 17, 1947, in Bloomington to Vasil Young and Lavina (Hitchcox) Young, Stephen was a devoted husband, father, veteran, and friend whose quiet strength and gentle spirit touched all who knew him. A graduate of Bloomington High School, Stephen went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Army. Throughout his distinguished military service, he earned numerous honors, including the Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal, among others—testaments to both his bravery and his steadfast dedication. Stephen’s talents extended far beyond his military accomplishments. A gifted marksman and an exceptionally skilled mechanic, he was part of the 1965 automotive team that won the state championship and went on to compete at the national level. His mechanical abilities later became his profession, and he spent several years serving the community as a mechanic at Curry Buick before becoming the Director of Grounds and Maintenance at Sherwood Oaks Christian Church. His workmanship, reliability, and humble generosity left a lasting mark on every place he served. To his family, Stephen was affectionately known as the “baby whisperer”—a man whose calm presence could soothe any infant. His gentle nature, quiet humor, and deep compassion made him a source of steady comfort and love. In 1964, Stephen met Donna, the love of his life. The two were married and shared an unbreakable bond that endured for 58 beautiful years. Their life together was filled with devotion, partnership, and a deep love that set an example for generations to come. Stephen is survived by his beloved wife, Donna; his sons Kevin Young and Kyle (Jeannine) Young; brother Philip Young and sister-in-law Vickie Hays Young; five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Vasil Young and mother Lavina Hitchcox Young; and father-in-law, Darrell L. Prince and mother-in-law Norma Jean Kinser Prince. Stephen Paul Young will be remembered for his courage, his dedication, his quiet wisdom, and the steady love he offered so freely. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Sherwood Oaks Christian Church. A funeral service will be held at 1:00pm Friday, December 5, 2025, at Sherwood Oaks Christian Church in Bloomington. With Rev. Tom Ellsworth Officiating. Burial will follow at Clear Creek Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 11:00am to time-of-service Friday December 5, 2025 also at Sherwood oaks. Allen Funeral Home and Crematory have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences, photos, and memories may be shared with family and friends at www.allencares.com.

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Stephen Paul Young

July 17, 1947 - November 30, 2025