Michael Lee Young

Michael Lee Young, 52, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 29, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted father, son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend who touched the lives of many with his kindness, generosity, and adventurous spirit. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Life and Legacy

Mike was born on July 23, 1971, in Yakima, Washington to Patrick and Debra. He grew up in various places around Washington state and lived there off and on throughout his life. However, he found his true home in Montana, where he spent the past 20+ years. As a first-generation descendant of The Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes of the Flathead Reservation, he held a deep connection to his heritage. Mike loved hiking, fishing, camping, and exploring new places. He shared his experiences and joy with his family and friends through videos and pictures. He had a passion for nature and wildlife, and a curiosity for learning new things.

Mike was a proud father of four children: Kristina, Andrea, K ‘Leigha, and Michael. He also had a special bond with his mother, Debra, who honored him with song and drum as he passed. He was a supportive and caring brother to his six siblings: Tina, Robin, Melaina, Wendy, Elizabeth, and Stanley. He cherished his three grandchildren deeply and was filled with anticipation for the arrival of the upcoming one.

Family and Friends

Mike was preceded in death by his grandmothers: Muriel Marie Kinney and Geraldine Mae Vallee, his father: Patrick Lee Marang, his stepfather: Stanley H. McConnell, JR., his aunt: Sherry D. Davis-Michele, and his uncles: Asa J. Kinney, Irving Marang, and Lance J. Thompson.

Mike is survived by his children: Kristina L. Young, Andrea L. Young, K'Leigha A. Young, and Michael Evans; his mother: Debra L. McConnell; his sisters: Tina Marang-Web, Robin Marang, Melaina Neschke (John), Wendy Kerr (Donny), Elizabeth Barojas- Leon; his brother: Stanley McConnell III; his uncle: Kevin; his uncle: Mike; his aunt: Erika; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Memorial

A memorial to honor Mike’s life will take place at Dash Point State Park in Federal Way, Washington, this April. Additional information will be provided as arrangements are finalized. Later in the year, during summer or fall, a celebration of life ceremony will be held in Montana, where Mike’s ashes will be laid to rest.

The family asks if you are interested in attending either event, please contact his sister: Melaina at neschkehouse@gmail.com for details.

Donations

The family has established a GoFundMe account to assist with Mike’s final costs and memorial fund. Your generous contributions can be made at the following: https://www.gofundme.com/f/michael-lee-young-memorial-fund.

In addition to the GoFundMe account, you can also support through Cash App and Venmo. Here the links:

Cash App: $MelainaNeschke

Venmo: Melaina-Neschke

Every contribution, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated. A heartfelt thank you to those who have already contributed.

Thank you

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, condolences, and support during this difficult time. They would also like to express their gratitude to the hospital staff who cared for Mike’s with compassion and dignity. Mike was a loving and gentle soul who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will always be in our hearts and memories.

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