Michael James Young's Obituary
Michael James Young, age 71, of Moulton, passed away Monday, January 19, 2026 at his home surrounded by loved ones.
Mike was born on September 16, 1954 in Marshalltown, Iowa, the son of Phillip James Young and Linda (Kutter) Young. He graduated from Ottumwa High School. On April 4, 1981, Mike was united in marriage to the love of his life, Dana Wallace.
In his younger years, Mike found his greatest joy on the sidelines-wherever his children happened to be playing, performing, or competing. Whether it was a packed gym, a dusty field, or a small auditorium, Mike was always easy to spot and impossible to miss. He was the loudest cheer in the room, his pride echoing above the crowd, his encouragement unwavering. As the years passed, that same boundless enthusiasm followed him into the next chapter of life. When his grandchildren were old enough to take the field or the stage, Mike was there once again-clapping, shouting, smiling wider than anyone else. To them, he wasn't just Grandpa; he was their biggest fan, a constant reminder that they were loved, supported, and believed in without condition.
Mike lived his life in service to others, and he did it with a smile, a story, and a voice you could never forget. For many years, he faithfully served the community of Moulton as an EMT and Firefighter-answering calls, lending strength in moments of fear, and standing steady when others needed him most. Helping people wasn't just his job; it was who he was.
Most recently, Mike found joy behind the wheel as a 10-15 Transit Driver, a role he truly loved. Social to his core, he never met a stranger. Every ride was an opportunity for conversation, laughter, and connection, and passengers quickly became friends. Mike had a gift for storytelling, often punctuated with humor and delivered in his unmistakable loud, raspy voice-a sound that will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him.
A natural jokester, Mike delighted in making people smile. His warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in others made everyone feel seen and welcome. Whether in moments of emergency or everyday life, he showed up fully, leaving people better than he found them.
Those left to honor Mike's memory are his wife of almost 45 years, Dana Young; his children, Chris Young, Bobbie (Rodney) Williams, and Dustin (Alecia) Young; eleven grandchildren, Terry, Lacey, Amanda, Blake, Raine, Cheyenne, Jaryn, Evan, Brayden, Tinley and Kyley; seven great grandchildren; his siblings, Alan Young, Scott (Joyce) Young, Randy (Brenda) Young, Brian Young, and Tracy Bell; as well as several extended family members and friends.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Linda Young; and his sister, Geri Ann Young.
Per wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville beginning at 12:00PM, with the family present from 3:00-5:00PM. Memorials may be written to Dana Young, to be designated at a later date, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Young Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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