Obituary
Hugh A. Young
Hugh Albert Young of Onalaska, Wisconsin passed away on November 3, 2022. He was born on June 18, 1941 in Des Moines, Iowa to Howard and Marguerite Young. Hugh was raised in Monroe, Iowa with siblings Dwight, Myron, Linda (deceased infant sister), and Marvel. He delivered newspapers, was active in Boy Scouts, played trombone in the high school band, worked on cars (his and friends) and drove. Hugh graduated from Iowa State University (Engineering BS) and University of Wisconsin-Madison (MBA) and worked at Trane Company in La Crosse, Wisconsin as a manufacturing engineer from 1963-2005. In the 1960’s he participated in sport car racing rallies and was a member of the Sports Car Club (SSC) now known as Sports Car Club of America (SSCA). The 1970- 1980’s included annual weekend camping adventures at Elkhart Lake to watch Road America racing and numerous family vacations. Hugh was a sports car enthusiast in every aspect, specifically for Chevrolet corvettes. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR races and the Indianapolis 500. There were many two-week car trips exploring national parks and unusual or quirky historical attractions in the United States. There were also regular motorcycle trips each August to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, with scenic rides to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument, Devils Tower, Custer State Park, the Badlands and Spearfish Canyon in the Black Hills. After-dinner motorcycle rides or a drive in a corvette convertible with Frank Sinatra music playing was how he concluded his day. Riverside Park was a favorite destination to watch people, the Mississippi River and reflect. Hugh will be remembered as a renaissance man and an avid collector of auto- related antiques and memorabilia and regional pottery. His other interests included college and professional football. Hugh was also a member of the Driftless Chapter of Antique Motorcycle Club of American and served one year as the historian. He was also member with the Doodle Bug Club, Red Wing Collector Society, and numerous local to national historical preservation societies. Most of all, Hugh’s legacy as an influential, positive role model and father is evident in the pursuits of his children. Three of his children are mechanical engineers and one builds backcountry roads and trails, and they all share a love of travel. Two of his sons are also Eagle Scouts. Hugh is survived by his wife Bonny Young; siblings Dwight (Dolores) Young, Myron (Diana) Young, Marvel (Bob) Dunaway; children Heather (John) Riccardi, Christopher (Gretchen) Young, Brian (Kay) Young, and Joel (Kassandra) Young; grandchildren John (Mary-Jordan), Marguerite (Garrett), Joseph, Madeline, Kate, Willem, and Alec; great grandchildren Braden, Browning, and Brooks. A private family ceremony was held on November 3, 2022 with scripture and poetry readings and prayers. A celebration of Hugh’s life will be held on Sunday, June 18, 2023. Details to be posted on Coulee Region Cremation website. Memorial donations may be sent to the following organizations: Onalaska Area Historical Society, La Crosse County Historical Society, or the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Bonny,
So sorry to here about Hugh. He was a close friend for many years while I worked at Trane. We spent many happy hours together with co-workers. A lot of great memories.
I had the honor to grow up with Hugh as a neighbor. He was always a warm, joyful person whenever our paths crossed, and even in quick little chats and pleasantries in passing, I learned a great deal from him. I remember spending my childhood exchanging waves and smiles with him whenever he brought out one of his bikes or cars for an adventure. As I grew older, I looked forward to seeing him whenever I returned home after leaving for school. I will miss him terribly, but will also continue to feel his positive influence in my life, especially each time Frank Sinatra comes on the radio. He will be missed. Much love to Bonny and his family.
Randy,
Thank you for your condolences. Another special memory is you were our Best Man at our wedding at Judge Peter Pappas’s house, on April 8, 1978. In looking at our photo albums, memories of our families together at Oktoberfest parades, Super Bowl and New Years Eve parties and picnics at Riverside Park and Goose Island. Yes, a lot of great memories.
Hi Bonny,
Marlene and I are sad to hear about Hugh. He was a lot of fun to work with as well as go on various adventures…Elkhart Lake Races and the La Crosse bar tour to name a couple. A lot of good memories!
Take Care, Willie
Hi Willie and Marlene,
Thank you for your kind condolences and sharing of memories.
Your thoughtfulness and support is felt as our family grieves.
Hi Bonny, so sorry to hear about Hugh. He was always fun to talk to. I am sure you have many great memories. Praying for comfort and peace at this time.
Ken
Hi Ken,
Thank you for your heartfelt condolences, support and prayers.
Bonny, I’m so sorry for your loss of Hugh. I have great memories of him, meeting the two of you through Randy and Tony Smith. I’m giving you a huge “Bonny” virtual hug until I can give you one in person. Hugs and prayers. LuAnne Kratt
LuAnne,
Thank you for your heartfelt condolences, support and prayers. Your hug and love is felt.
Hello Bonny, Our deepest sympathy to you and your family in the loss of Hugh. This is Hugh’s 1st cousin. We met you at his mother’s funeral but our paths haven’t crossed often. Hugh came from a great family and they all were well educated and studious. With all the adventures he was involved in, according to the obituary, we would all have enjoyed his stories and knowledge. Thinking of you all, Ron and Mary (Kool) Goecke, State Center, IA
I am the daughter of William and Alice Kool. My Dad and Hugh’s mom were brother and sister.
Bonny,
We feel his loss greatly. He was one of a kind, a gentle soul. I think I will miss his poetry, dry wit, and musings on life more than anything. Such an incredible human being. Our love to you during this time of mourning.
Dear Aunt Bonny, I was so sorry to hear of Hugh’s decline and transition. I was consoled knowing you were by his side. I have strong and dear memories of him spanning over 50 years, from when the Black Corvette was BRAND NEW! I look forward to seeing you and your family next June, and celebrating him. May you be comforted in your loss.
Bonny:
What a loving tribute! Hugh will be sorely missed.