Thursday, August 22nd, 2024
Michael Youngs
Michael "Bunzi" Youngs, 71, of rural Wapakoneta, OH died 8:55 p.m. Thursday August 15, 2024 at his residence, following a long, valiant battle with Frontotemporal Degeneration.
He was born October 21, 1952 in Celina, OH to John H. and Betty (Kellermeyer) Youngs, Sr. On June 22, 1991 in St. Marys, OH he married Donna Osborn, who survives.
Also survived by: daughter Tara (Paul) May III of Rockford, OH; son Brian (Angelia) Youngs of Jones, OK; 8 grandchildren: Caden May, Brooke (Corey) Walls, Landen May, Madison (Alicia) Eye, Mackenzie (Braden) Muck, Macy Youngs, Ryan Youngs, Ty Michael; sister Susan (George) Halko of St. Marys, OH; sister-in-law Sandy Youngs of St. Marys, OH; brother-in-law Kermit Slone of Hindman, KY; sister-in-law Tammy Osborn of Wapakoneta, OH; sister-in-law Mary (Cullen) Gibson of Ft. Wayne, IN; and nieces and nephews: John Youngs, Jamie Youngs, Jodi Youngs, Jason Youngs, Lisa Everage, Kelly Taylor, Kevin Slone, Tim Halko, Tina Lee, Terry Halko, Jared Gibson, Derek Gibson, Danielle Gibson.
Preceded in death by: parents John and Betty Youngs, Sr.; brother John Youngs, Jr.; sister Patty Slone; nephew Rodney Slone; parents-in-law Glen and Ann Osborn.
He was a graduate of St. Marys Memorial High School (Class of 1971) and attended University of Cincinnati. Prior to becoming disabled, he had worked in industrial sales. He was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in St. Marys. A naturally-gifted athlete, he excelled in all sports, particularly football, playing for the St. Marys Roughriders and Cincinnati Bearcats. Later, he entered and won numerous area golf tournaments.
Bunzi will be remembered for his fun-loving and humble personality. His smile and laughter would light up any room. He was always in a good mood and as his wife states, "Didn't require coffee in the morning."
Mike's life changed dramatically when he was diagnosed with FTD that he endured for nearly 20 years. His wishes were to be able to stay at home and keep fighting, even after everyone else gave up on him. His wife, Donna, fulfilled those wishes and he showed his fierce tenacity for living by rallying back from the brink on numerous occasions. MIke's message to all would be to "Take that extra minute or two and embrace your loved ones. None of us know how our journey will end. It's all in God's plan."
His favorite pastimes inlcuded traveling, golfing, horseback riding, dancing, and supporting the St. Marys Roughriders, The Ohio State Buckeyes, Cincinnati Bearcats and LA Raiders. He loved attending the activities of his children, grandchildren and nieces and nephews. His favorite movie was Seabiscuit, he loved the color purple and always made certain to wear his St. Michael the Archangel medallion. Along with Donna, he co-hosted an annual 4th of July celebration for family, friends and neighbors at their Derby Farm residence which included food, old-fashioned family fun and a fireworks display (with the assistance of Mr. Frank Dietz). Over the years, he grilled literally thousands of hamburgers, hotdogs and brats for appreciative attendees.
Bunzi also enjoyed horses and watching his animals compete throughout the tri-state area of Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. Mike also was very fond of his pet dog, "Derby".
Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. on Monday August 26, 2024 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church 511 E. Spring Street in St. Marys, with the Very Rev. Jerry Schetter, celebrant. Burial will follow at the Riverside Cemetery in Defiance, OH.
Visitation 4 - 8 p.m. on Sunday at the Miller - Long & Folk Funeral Home 314 W. High Street in St. Marys.
Condolences amy be expressed and memories shared with Mike's family via: www.millerfuneralhomes.net or the Miller Funeral Homes Facebook Page.
