February 1, 1938 – October 29, 2025
Donald “Don” Young, 87, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025 at The Residence at Pearl Street.
Donald was born on February 1, 1938, in Newport, Rhode Island, to Louis and Emily Young. He graduated from Rogers High School and went on to earn his degree from the University of Rhode Island. After college he moved to Massachusetts where he began a dedicated career as a chemist with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Boston. Following his retirement from the FDA, Don continued part-time work for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for many years.
In 1962, Don married Sheila O’Reilly, and together they raised five children in Reading, Massachusetts. He is survived by his children: Elizabeth Young and her husband Ralf Goericke of Encinitas, CA; Christine Young of Rancho Santa Fe, CA; Kenneth Young and his wife Cathleen Young of Reading, MA; Daniel Young and his wife Luciane Young of Woburn, MA; and Eugene Young of Park City, UT. He is also survived and lovingly remembered by his six grandchildren-Samuel and his wife Emily, Katarina, Abigail, Sarah, Kathryn and Michael-as well as his ex-wife Sheila.
Don was predeceased by his loving partner of 18 years, Linda Sidman, and is survived by Linda’s daughter Stacy, along with many cherished nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brothers Louis Young Jr. and George (Buddy) Young, and his sisters Barbara Esposito and Marilyn Bedford.
Don lived life with a generous spirit and a grateful heart. If you were looking for him, chances are you’d find him outdoors…shoveling snow and tending his yard, golfing with friends, or halfway up a ladder with a paintbrush in hand.
At his core, Don was a family man. He adored his large extended family and cherished time spent hosting clam bakes in the backyard, taking graceful turns on the ski slopes with the ‘crew’, or entertaining the kids at the beach. He coached and loved watching his children participate in any sport. He would cheer on enthusiastically from the sidelines for all of his grandchildren’s extracurricular activities (often convinced he knew more than the coaches and never shy about saying so) “Breakfast at Pa’s”- as his grandchildren called it – was legendary, especially his famous home fries.
Don wore colorful shirts. His temper could be loud – but his love was always louder. He had a big smile and a wonderful sense of humor. Every dog he raised or met adored him. They instantly knew he was one of the good ones.
Our hearts are heavy and full. We will miss you dearly. Try not to be too bossy with the angels.
A celebration of Don’s life will be planned at a later date. In his honor please consider donating to your local animal shelter, humane society or rescue organization.
Arrangements under the direction of the Douglass, Edgerley & Bessom Funeral Home, Reading, MA www.doulassfunerlhome.com
