Timothy Allen Young, age 56, of Newton, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on March 25, 2024, after bravely battling cancer for eleven months. His life, characterized by devotion to family, unwavering faith, and dedicated service to his community, will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Born on February 26, 1968, in Wichita, Kansas, Tim shared his birthday with his beloved mother, Nancy (Ashlock) Young. He grew up in Newton as the son of Gerald and Nancy Young. From a young age, Tim exhibited a strong work ethic and a commitment to those around him, traits that would define his life and resonate with his family throughout the years. His early life in Newton laid the foundation for his future contributions to the community and the strong family values he cherished.
Tim graduated from Newton High School in 1986 and continued his education at Hutchinson Community College, earning his Associate in Arts in 1988. He furthered his studies at Fort Hays State University, where he not only pursued academic goals but also found a lifelong partner in Danelle Metcalf. Their meeting in Hays marked the beginning of a loving marriage, celebrated on October 10, 1992, in Hays, Kansas. Together, they built a family with the arrival of their two children, Shelbie and Landon, who completed their joyful home. Tim was the epitome of a devoted family man, an amazing father, a doting grandpa, and a supportive husband. He consistently provided for his family, often balancing multiple jobs to ensure their well-being, always with a loving and generous spirit.
Continuing his pursuit of knowledge alongside his family and career, Tim earned his Bachelor of Science from Southwestern College in 1998. Following the passing of his father, Gary, Tim felt a profound calling to ministry. He pursued this calling with dedication, completing his Master of Arts with a major in specialized ministry in 2008. Deeply rooted in his faith, Tim was an active member of the First United Methodist Church. He served as a licensed local pastor for Walton and Buhler UMC from 2005 to 2008 within the former Kansas West Conference, drawing strength and purpose from his spiritual community and in turn, offering guidance and comfort to those he served.
Professionally, Tim dedicated many years to Femco manufacturing in McPherson, Kansas, from 1999 to 2022. During his tenure, he held various roles in Accounting, IT, and Human Resources Management, showcasing his versatility and commitment to excellence. In 2022, Tim transitioned to the non-profit sector, becoming the HR Manager at Ember Hope in Newton. This career shift deeply resonated with Tim’s passion for service and community support. He found immense fulfillment in his work at Ember Hope, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to its mission until the very end of his life. His dedication was so profound that even in his final days at home, his thoughts were still with his colleagues and the responsibilities he held dear, demonstrating his exceptional commitment and work ethic.
Beyond his professional and ministerial life, Tim embraced a variety of passions and hobbies. In his younger years, he enjoyed singing with the Railaires and cherished golfing and fishing with his father. His musical talents extended to playing bass with the First United Methodist Church Praise team. Known for his exceptional grilling skills, Tim delighted in preparing delicious meals for family and friends. He was an avid sports fan, enthusiastically supporting the Wichita Thunder hockey games, KC Royals, and KC Chiefs. Bowling was another significant passion for Tim, highlighted by his achievement of bowling two perfect 300 games and an impressive 812 series, accomplishments he was incredibly proud of. Tim also appreciated simple pleasures, such as enjoying a cold Bud Lite and experimenting with home brewing recipes. He found peace and joy in watching birds at his bird feeders. Active in his community, Tim was a member of the Sons of the American Legion, often spending Friday nights at the Legion with friends. Above all, Tim was a man of faith, a firm believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. He lived his beliefs authentically and shared his knowledge of the Bible thoughtfully and respectfully.
Tim considered his greatest achievements to be his children. He was deeply involved in their lives, offering unwavering support and encouragement in all their endeavors. He dedicated time to coaching numerous ball teams and judging debate tournaments, positively impacting many young lives. Furthermore, he was a KSHAA registered softball umpire from 2018 to 2022. Tim believed in guiding youth with both firmness and support, emphasizing respect and, most importantly, the joy of participation. His commitment to family extended to his role as a loving grandpa to Heidi and Rowan, who brought immense joy to his life. The values he instilled and the love he shared form a lasting legacy for his family, embodying the principles of a family-oriented life that resonates deeply within a Young Family Funeral Home context – emphasizing care, support, and community during times of loss.
Tim is survived by his loving wife, Danelle; his son Landon of Kansas City; his daughter Shelbie (husband Patrick White) of Maize; his cherished grandchildren Heidi and Rowan; his mother Nancy Young of Newton; his brother Mark Young of Wichita (wife Michelle); his mother-in-law Donna Metcalf of Nixa, MO; sister-in-laws Angie Laurin (husband Jeff) of Nixa, MO; Pam Normandin (husband Ivan) of Damar, KS; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family, and many dear friends.
He was predeceased by his father, Gerald (Gary) Young, his father-in-law, Danny Metcalf, and his nephew Matthew Laurin.
A memorial service to celebrate Tim’s life will be held on Monday, April 15th, at 10:00 AM at First United Methodist Church in Newton, Kansas, followed by a graveside service at Restlawn Gardens of Memory.
In remembrance of Tim’s life, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Newton American Legion or First United Methodist Church, Newton, KS, in lieu of flowers. These gestures would honor Tim’s commitment to community and faith, reflecting the values he held dear and the principles that a young family funeral home seeks to uphold in supporting families through difficult times.
