Jeffrey W. Young began his next journey on May 18th, 2022, from his home in East Rochester, NY. He was welcomed with lush peony bouquets by his mother, Carol Jean Young (Ophardt), whose spirit was ever present during his valiant fight. Those who wished him ‘bye for now’, and whose hearts will forever need mending, include his wife, Erica; daughter, Melody (Eric) Welch; grandson James Welch; father, Wayne; sister, Julie (Jeff) Iler; loving ex-wife Karen (David) Raz; in-laws: Jayne “Mom” and Rick Linderman, Aaron (Victoria Calarco) Linderman, Rochelle (Shad) Moyer, and Sari Rupp; nephews: Kamron, Cody, and Emmett; nieces: Mia, Kayla, Talia, and Ellsie; aunts, uncles, cousins, and many close friends he considered family.
Jeff was an athletic and avid adventurer and outdoorsman. He found solice in the quiet of the mountains and forests. Camping with family and friends enabled him to share his passion. He generously chose smaller peaks and shorter miles for those less experienced. After climbing New Hampshire’s 48 high peaks he couldn’t wait to guide others through the same challenge. It was with warrior-like zeal that he trained for and completed races, marathons, and ultra-marathons on the trails, often with his “brothers” by his side. Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail was a life-long ambition of his, but after walking over 600 miles he vowed to return when he was better equipped physically and mentally. His loved ones are honored to carry him the rest of the way.
Family and friends describe Jeff’s gentle smile as infectious and memorable. He could never pass up an opportunity to make others laugh (even his oncologist) and always enjoyed a good joke. His child-like enthusiasm, natural joy, and playfulness was relished by young and old alike. Jeff was admired for his perseverance in his passions and throughout his illness. His genuine love, warm heart, and strong hugs will never be forgotten.
Jeff’s family and friends would like to extend their gratitude to the Roswell Park Cancer Institute. The sincerity, compassion, and devotion of the neuro-oncology team, and Roswell Park as a whole, was overwhelming. Thank you Roswell for your unmatched excellence and benevolence. We would also like to thank URMC Home Care for not missing one detail, enabling us to worry less and be present with Jeff. Thank you for showing him love in his last days.
No formal services will be held. Family and friends will gather for a private remembrance at a future date.
In lieu of cards, flowers, or gifts, honor Jeff by: planting a tulip tree – their unique leaves and beautiful flowers were alluring and delightful for him on his traverse of the Appalachian trail; take a hike – with Jeff in mind; do something you’ve been wanting to do, but have found excuses not to – tomorrows are never guaranteed; practice patience for those less fortunate than you – one day you may find yourself just like them; and love one another – a little kindness goes a long way when you’re struggling to draw the strength to carry on.
Dream, Jeff, dream
Of woods and trails and flowing streams
mountain vistas in hues of blue
and loved ones who are missing you
Climb, Jeff, climb
Sure-footed and strong, conquering craggy peaks
Striding rocky trails bordered by wandering wildflowers
Taking note, reveling in beauty despite your weariness
longing for shelter, a place to rest
We could not walk beside you to the summit,
But trusted trail angels to guide the way
Until we meet again one day
Poem by Janet Olexy
Knowing Jeff is in a better place and out of pain does not make losing him any easier. I’m so happy that my children Mike Young, Kimberly Sayre and I got the opportunity to meet their cousin as an adult. Those memories have become precious to us. May God be with the family and loved ones. We will miss him as well.
I’m so sorry for your great loss. Jeff was so fun to be with while camping, hiking and biking. Our memories are beautiful together. Someone please contact me to share his pictures as I’m downsizing.
What a heartfelt tribute to a great man! We miss you! Sending so much love to those who were blessed to be closest to him!
We are so very sorry for your loss! Lifting you all up with love and prayers ❤️
So many things going through my mind – all the kind favors that Jeff did for me (or for us) over the years, all the wonderful, fun crazy camping trips, the many nights of splitting beers and splitting wood, the discussions of family and friends and life – skiing and hiking and Geva and all manner of enjoyable moments. Sharing music and homemade beer, wine and baked goods. I will hold these memories close to my heart my dear friend.
To Erica, family and friends, so very sorry for your loss. ❤️
My heart aches for you, Wayne, and all who loved your son. This remembrance of him was so vivid, I feel like I now know him as a friend. Beautifully said! May comfort calm the ache in the souls who who loved him. So very sorry for your loss.
To the Young Family.. so sorry to hear of Jeffs passing , my prayers are with all of you He left why to soon I’m sure his mom was waiting for him . Bless you all
I am so sorry to hear Jeff’s passing. He was a great guy to work at GVPS. He had a infectious smile with positive attitudes. It was a beautiful tribute. My prayers and thoughts are with Erica, family and friends.
I didnt know him, but Jeff sounds like a great man. Blessed in many ways. A wonderful life well lived.
Condolences to family and friends. So difficult to be separated in the physical sense……My 82 yo Dad passed in Feb. As I tend to my outdoor plants, I feel closer to him. Ilove the ideas to do in his honor. His obituary.is beautifully written. Lovely..
I am saddened to learn of Jeff’s passing and I am honored to have known him. The remembrance of Jeff that I read is a tribute to a man who lived and loved with all he had and who touched those who crossed his path. Jeff and I worked together for a short time and he always had a smile (well, almost always) and he was willing to do whatever it took to get things done. I knew there was more to Jeff then I was aware and knowing that he was seen for who he was by those closest to him is a tribute to Jeff’s impact on all of us.